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
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: ~25 minutes
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Servings: 6–8
🧾 Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
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1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
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8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed)
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½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
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¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)
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1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
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Grilled chicken
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Avocado slices
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Kalamata olives
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Red pepper flakes
👩🍳 Instructions
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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
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Best texture: Add basil just before serving
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Extra flavor: Finish with flaky sea salt
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Make-ahead: Add dressing right before serving
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Low-carb: Use chickpea or zucchini pasta
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Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 310
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Fat: 18g
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Carbs: 30g
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Protein: 9g