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Caprese Pasta Salad

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad: Your New Summer Favorite

Enjoy a refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings that combines vibrant flavors in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta A sturdy base for the salad; cook it al dente to maintain texture.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Sweetness and a pop of color; can substitute with grape tomatoes.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Balls Fresh mozzarella is best for creaminess, feta works as a tangy alternative.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Slice into ribbons right before serving for maximum freshness.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Extra virgin provides a flavor boost.
  • 3 tablespoons White Balsamic Vinegar Can swap for red wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Using fresh garlic will amp up the aroma.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Essential seasoning.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential seasoning.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil and add pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, add halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Stir gently to combine.
  3. Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with tomatoes and mozzarella and gently fold together.
  4. Slice fresh basil into thin ribbons and toss into the salad.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  6. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Allow the dressed salad to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  8. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, optionally garnish with extra basil, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a heartier salad, consider adding proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp.

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