Description
A fresh and vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad with a delightful combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, dressed in extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 ounces (2 cups) whole grain fusilli or rotini pasta
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 8 ounces mozzarella “pearls” or one mozzarella ball, torn into bite-sized pieces
- Several sprigs of fresh basil (enough for 2+ tablespoons chopped)
- 2 to 3 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar or regular balsamic vinegar, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, combine the olive oil, tomatoes, and salt in a large, non-reactive skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 to 12 minutes until most tomatoes start to burst and the olive oil has a light red hue.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked pasta. Let it cool slightly to avoid melting the cheese.
- Add the mozzarella balls and chopped basil to the pasta. Drizzle with vinegar and adjust seasoning with more vinegar and/or salt if needed.
- For best flavor, let it rest for about 20 minutes to allow pasta to absorb the sauce, or refrigerate for future use.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and served chilled or at room temperature, or reheated if preferred.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for additional protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Caprese Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad, Italian Salad, Vegetarian Salad