caprese pasta salad

Name: Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound(s) short pasta like rotini, penne, or cavatappi; ½ cup(s) extra virgin olive oil; ¼ cup(s) white balsamic vinegar; ½ teaspoon(s) kosher salt; ½ teaspoon(s) fresh ground black pepper; 2 clove(s) garlic crushed; 16 ounce(s) mozzarella balls; 4 cup(s) grape or cherry tomatoes sliced in half; 1/2 cup(s) basil cut in ribbons; red pepper flakes (optional)

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Beth Pierce

Ofallon, MO

Updated on Jul 19, 2022

This Caprese Pasta Salad combines pasta, sun-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and garden fresh basil all drizzled with an easy five-ingredient balsamic vinaigrette. Summer is the ideal time for cold pasta salads with garden fresh vegetables and herbs. I love to serve this pasta salad with grilled chicken, pork, or shrimp. Or serve it for lunch or light supper during the hot summer months.

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This flavor-packed cold Caprese Pasta Salad brings the best that summer produce has to offer with pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil together in a tasty garlic balsamic vinaigrette.

prep time 10 Min

cook time 10 Min

method Stove Top

yield 10 serving(s)

Ingredients

1 pound short pasta like rotini, penne, or cavatappi
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup white balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
2 cloves garlic crushed
16 ounces mozzarella balls
4 cups grape or cherry tomatoes sliced in half
1/2 cup basil cut in ribbons
red pepper flakes (optional)

How To Make caprese pasta salad

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the pasta al dente according to the package directions and drain. Rinse with a little cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well. Add the pasta to a large serving bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2

In a small mason jar with a tight-fitting lid add the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic. Shake well to combine.
Step 3

Add the mozzarella balls, grape tomatoes, and basil to the bowl with the cooled pasta. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to coat.
Step 4

If desired sprinkle with little red pepper flakes.
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