Description
Savor the essence of summer with this vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad, where juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony. Tossed with al dente pasta and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar, this dish is not only visually stunning but also bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light weekday meal, each bite transports you to an Italian terrace under the sun.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- 2. Combine fresh ingredients: In a large bowl, mix halved cherry tomatoes, torn basil leaves, and mozzarella balls.
- 3. Add the dressing: Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad ingredients.
- 4. Mix in the pasta: Gently fold cooled pasta into the bowl without crushing the ingredients.
- 5. Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste; mix gently to ensure even seasoning.
- 6. Chill (optional): Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes for enhanced flavor before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg