Caprese Pasta Salad

This caprese pasta salad is such an easy to make side dish to add to any summer bbq or family gathering. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil tossed with tender pasta and a simple balsamic dressing.

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American, Italian

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings servings

Calories 287kcal

Author Sherri Hagymas

Ingredients

16 ounces bowtie pasta
8 ounces mozzarella pearls
1 ½ cups grape tomatoes halved
½ cup fresh basil chopped
Balsamic vinaigrette dressing
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, boil water and cook the pasta, and cook according to package directions for al dente pasta (usually about 10 minutes).
Drain pasta into a colander in the sink and rinse under cold water for 1-2 minutes to cool the pasta.
Add pasta to a large mixing bowl.
Add mozzarella pearls, grape tomatoes, and fresh basil.
When ready to serve, add ⅓ - ½ cup of balsamic vinaigrette dressing and salt and pepper to taste and toss to coat well.
Let it sit for the flavors to meld for at least 20-30 minutes.

Notes

Use a different type of short pasta like fusilli, large shells or penne pasta.

Add ¼ cup of toasted pine nuts or sliced black olives or green olives for an extra twist.

Add grilled chicken, grilled steak for shrimp for more of a complete meal.

Swap the cherry tomatoes for grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes

Use white balsamic vinegar.

Use any favorite store-bought balsamic vinaigrette.

If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add 2-3 more minced garlic cloves or use roasted garlic for a milder taste.

Nutrition