Description
Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish made with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, and tender farfalle pasta, all tossed in olive oil and finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s perfect for warm weather lunches, backyard parties, or a light dinner option. Quick to make, easy to love!
Ingredients
8 oz farfalle pasta
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mozzarella pearls
½ cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Instructions
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the farfalle pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and reduce stickiness.
2. While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and prepare the basil by slicing or tearing it.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine evenly.
5. Just before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Add the basil just before serving to keep its bright green color and flavor.
To make ahead, prepare everything but the basil and glaze. Toss them in last minute for best results.
For added protein, toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Summer salad, caprese, vegetarian, easy pasta