This Caprese pasta salad combines tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all tossed in a light balsamic-olive oil dressing. Classic Italian flavors with a refreshing twist.
⏱ Time & Servings
-
Prep Time: 15 minutes
-
Cook Time: 10 minutes
-
Total Time: ~25 minutes
-
Servings: 6–8
🧾 Ingredients
-
12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
-
1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
-
8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed)
-
½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
-
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
-
2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
-
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
-
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
-
Grilled chicken
-
Avocado slices
-
Kalamata olives
-
Red pepper flakes
👩🍳 Instructions
-
Cook Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
Drain and rinse briefly with cool water. -
Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. -
Make Dressing
Whisk olive oil, balsamic glaze, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. -
Toss
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently. -
Chill or Serve
Serve immediately or chill 30 minutes for best flavor.
🍽 Flavor & Texture
✔ Fresh and light
✔ Creamy mozzarella
✔ Sweet-tangy balsamic
✔ Herb-packed and refreshing
⭐ Tips & Variations
-
Best texture: Add basil just before serving
-
Extra flavor: Finish with flaky sea salt
-
Make-ahead: Add dressing right before serving
-
Low-carb: Use chickpea or zucchini pasta
-
Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
-
Calories: 310
-
Fat: 18g
-
Carbs: 30g
-
Protein: 9g
