Caprese Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Classic
When you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with the flavors of summer, a Caprese pasta salad is the perfect choice. This delightful recipe takes the classic elements of a traditional Caprese salad – ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella – and tosses them with al dente pasta to create a satisfying meal that’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner. So, let’s start mixing up this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a fast favorite!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
- 2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or use perlini mozzarella
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Then, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the dressing.
- Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary, and let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for later. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Cook’s Tips:
- For an added flavor kick, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of pesto stirred into the salad.
- If you prepare this salad ahead of time, consider adding the basil just before serving to keep its flavor fresh and vibrant.
- You can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta variants to cater to dietary preferences or restrictions.
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that you can tweak to your liking. Whether you add a protein like grilled chicken or swap out different types of tomatoes or vinegar, it’s a refreshing and delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!