What I love most about this Caprese Pasta Salad is how it effortlessly combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta. The juicy grape tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil leaves are a match made in heaven. Tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, this dish is both light and satisfying. It’s also incredibly versatile. Sometimes, I tweak the recipe by adding a handful of arugula for a peppery bite or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Travel has also influenced my love for this recipe. During a summer trip to Italy, I was captivated by the fresh, local ingredients and how Italians embrace simple yet flavorful dishes. This pasta salad brings back memories of sunlit days spent exploring Italian markets and enjoying leisurely lunches at quaint cafes. It’s a wonderful reminder that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.
I hope this Caprese Pasta Salad brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s a dish that celebrates the season’s best produce and is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into the full recipe below, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with your favorite ingredients and tweaks.
Caprese Pasta Salad
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Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 pound dried pasta (farfalle or other small pasta works best)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls (or cubed fresh mozzarella)
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
In a small bowl or jar with a lid, mix the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well until combined. Set aside.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately.
FAQs:
What type of pasta is best for Caprese Pasta Salad?
For Caprese Pasta Salad, small pasta varieties like farfalle (bowtie), penne, or fusilli work best. These types of pasta hold the dressing well and mix easily with the other ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Can I use a different type of vinegar if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if you prefer. However, keep in mind that balsamic vinegar provides a unique sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the Caprese ingredients well.
Is it necessary to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking?
Rinsing the pasta with cold water after cooking is recommended for pasta salads. This step cools the pasta quickly and stops the cooking process, preventing it from becoming too soft. Additionally, it helps to remove excess starch, which can make the salad gummy.
Can I prepare the Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Caprese Pasta Salad in advance. For the best results, keep the dressing separate and mix it with the salad just before serving. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much dressing and becoming soggy.
What can I add to the Caprese Pasta Salad to make it a complete meal?
To make the Caprese Pasta Salad a complete meal, consider adding some protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Additionally, you could mix in some extra vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or arugula for added flavor and nutrition.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 pound dried pasta farfalle or other small pasta works best
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella
- 2 cups grape tomatoes sliced in half
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake well until everything is mixed together. Set aside.
- Cook the pasta following the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour the prepared dressing over the top and toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve right away.
