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Caprese Pasta Salad

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad: Your Perfect Make-Ahead Dish

Enjoy a vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad, combining fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—perfect for gatherings and easy to prepare.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil high-quality
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 unit fresh lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • to taste black pepper freshly cracked
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces dried pasta farfalle or small pasta
  • 8 ounces mozzarella pearls
  • 2 cups halved grape tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

Equipment

  • large pot
  • medium bowl or jar
  • colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined and set aside.
    Caprese Pasta Salad
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain, rinse under cold water to cool.
    Caprese Pasta Salad
  3. Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, grape tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
    Caprese Pasta Salad
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, gently mix to combine, and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
    Caprese Pasta Salad
  5. Serve and Store: Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container. Toss with 3/4 of the dressing for make-ahead convenience. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
    Caprese Pasta Salad

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 8gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the Caprese Pasta Salad to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

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