Print

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad with Creamy Mozzarella

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A bright, fresh, and creamy pasta salad that captures the flavors of summer with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella pearls tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn or chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Drain thoroughly.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, minced garlic (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
  3. Halve the tomatoes and roughly tear the basil leaves. Drain and pat dry the mozzarella pearls.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to combine, being careful not to break the mozzarella.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, gently toss again and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil if needed.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. Pat mozzarella dry to avoid watery salad. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Add fresh basil just before serving to keep flavor bright. Optional: add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, creamy mozzarella, summer salad, easy pasta salad, fresh basil, balsamic dressing, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-with-creamy-mozzarella-easy-recipe-for-summer-meals/