Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe. Combining the classic tastes of a traditional Caprese salad—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil—with hearty pasta, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or bringing a potluck dish, this salad is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. With its bright colors and delicious taste, it’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy choice packed with fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 pound dried pasta (farfalle or small pasta)
8 ounces mozzarella pearls
2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

To make the dressing, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Boil salted water in a large pot and cook pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat evenly.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 325
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For added flavor variations, try incorporating grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. To customize your salad further, swap out mozzarella for feta or burrata. This salad can be made ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container.