Description

This Caprese Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tossed with a zesty dressing. It’s an easy, delicious dish that’s perfect for quick weeknight meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound cavatappi pasta
16 ounces mozzarella pearls or ciliegine
2 pints grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
½ cups fresh basil julienned
2/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Boil a large pot of water and add one tablespoon of salt. Cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package directions until al-dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let it cool.
While the pasta cooks, halve the grape or cherry tomatoes and add them to a large bowl.
In the same bowl, add the mozzarella pearls and julienned basil.
In a small mason jar or measuring cup, combine olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake or stir until well-mixed.
Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Pour half of the dressing over the pasta and toss to distribute evenly. Taste and adjust with more dressing if necessary.
Store the remaining dressing to refresh the pasta later, as it will absorb the dressing over time.
Serve the salad fresh.

Notes

Feel free to add other ingredients such as olives or avocado for added flavor.
This pasta salad can be made a few hours in advance, making it a great option for gatherings.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 15mg