This Caprese Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. The juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil come together with a tangy balsamic glaze, making each bite a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and refreshing.
It’s an ideal side dish for summer gatherings, BBQs, or light lunches. The pasta adds a hearty element while the fresh ingredients keep it light and healthy. Plus, it’s a dish that’s easy to customize—add more vegetables, a sprinkle of pine nuts, or a touch of olives for extra flavor!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and lemon juice (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, drizzle with additional balsamic glaze and garnish with extra basil, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
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