Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Get ready for a fresh twist on one of my all-time favorite Italian classics! Introducing my caprese pasta salad recipe! Just like my Mini Caprese Salad Bites and Caprese Chicken, this dish captures the essence of a traditional caprese salad with its irresistible combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and balsamic reduction. However, in this mouthwatering variation, all the ingredients come together with tender cooked pasta to create the ultimate Italian-inspired pasta salad! Yet, not only is this caprese pasta salad incredibly good, but it’s also remarkably easy to make! So don’t let the idea of balsamic reduction intimidate you. Nowadays, you can easily find this tangy sweet glaze sold in most grocery stores or make your own in a matter of minutes.
Farfalle Pasta – This bowtie-shaped pasta serves as the base of the pasta salad. You can also use other short pasta such as rotini pasta or pasta penne if you prefer. Cherry Tomatoes – They add a lovely burst of freshness to the dish, grape tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes are another option. Bocconcini – I used pearl bocconcini, which is literally just small fresh mozzarella balls! However, you can also use cubed mozzarella. Basil – Fresh basil makes this pasta salad! In a pinch, you can use dried basil but nothing lives up to aromatic fresh basil leaves. Balsamic Glaze – The star of the dressing, you can now find balsamic glaze sold in almost any grocery store! Or, you can make your own balsamic glaze with some balsamic vinegar. Olive Oil – Use rich and flavorful extra-virgin olive oil for the most authentic Italian flavor. Garlic – Brings a subtle bit of garlicky goodness to the dressing. But be sure to use freshly minced garlic cloves for the most depth. Salt and Pepper– Needed to season the dish and elevate the taste of the salad.
This recipe is as easy as can be! Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or a cooking novice, you can whip up this yummy dish in no time with just a handful of ingredients! Step one is to start making pasta! So bring a large pot of water with a tbsp of salt to a rolling boil. Next, add the farfalle pasta and cook it according to the package instructions or until it reaches al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and then rinse it under cold running water to stop it from continuing to cook. Then set the pasta aside. While the pasta is cooking, you can make the dressing! All you have to do is whisk the olive oil, balsamic glaze, and minced garlic together in a small bowl. Or, you can put all the dressing ingredients into a small jar with a tight-fitting lid and then shake it vigorously. Then season the balsamic vinaigrette to your taste with salt and freshly ground pepper. After you have cooked and cooled down the pasta, put it in a large bowl along with the cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Now, pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place the pasta salad in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. When you’re ready to serve, gently toss the caprese pasta salad to mix everything up again. Then give it a taste and season it with more salt and black pepper if needed. Finally, serve your pasta salad with one last drizzle of balsamic reduction and some more fresh basil leaves if you like!
Storage
Leftover caprese pasta salad will keep in the fridge for up to 6 days in an airtight container. In fact, it’s often even better the next day, which means it’s also a great make-ahead recipe!
Other Delicious Pasta Salad Recipes
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