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Best Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Best Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe for Effortless Summer Feasts

This Best Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is an easy, fresh, and vibrant dish perfect for summer feasts.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Whole grain fusilli or rotini pasta Gluten-free pasta can also be used.
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil Higher-quality oil can elevate taste.
For the Tomatoes
  • 2 cups Cherry or grape tomatoes Substitute with other fresh tomatoes if necessary.
For Added Flavor
  • 1 tsp Fine sea salt Coarse salt can be used if finely ground.
  • 3 tbsp White balsamic vinegar Regular balsamic vinegar can work but may change the color.
For Creaminess
  • 1 cup Mozzarella pearls Opt for larger mozzarella torn into pieces for a dairy-free alternative.
For Freshness
  • 1 cup Fresh basil Fresh spinach can be used in a pinch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside in a mixing bowl to cool slightly.
  2. Cook the Tomatoes: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 6-12 minutes until they burst and release their juices.
  3. Combine Pasta and Tomatoes: Stir the cooked pasta into the skillet with tomatoes. Let it cool slightly for 5 minutes.
  4. Add Cheese and Basil: Fold in mozzarella pearls and chopped basil. Drizzle with white balsamic vinegar and mix everything together.
  5. Let Rest for Flavor: Allow the salad to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes to meld flavors. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, let mozzarella pearls sit at room temperature before mixing. Save a cup of pasta water to loosen the salad if necessary. Resting time is essential for flavor melding.

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