Print

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 9 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad featuring grape tomatoes, fresh bocconcini mozzarella, and aromatic basil, tossed with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs. This easy-to-make dish combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta, perfect for a light lunch or a summer side dish.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz bocconcini (small fresh mozzarella balls)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons chopped basil, divided
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Dash of crushed red pepper flakes
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz orecchiette pasta (or bowtie pasta, fusilli, or cavatappi)
  • Balsamic glaze, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tomato and cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine halved grape tomatoes, bocconcini mozzarella, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well until the tomatoes and cheese are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
  3. Combine pasta with salad mixture: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl containing the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Stir gently until the pasta is fully combined with the other ingredients. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of chopped basil for extra freshness. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an appealing finish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Allowing the tomato and mozzarella mixture to marinate enhances the flavor.
  • Rinsing the pasta with cold water prevents it from becoming mushy in the salad.
  • You can substitute bocconcini with fresh mozzarella balls if unavailable.
  • Use balsamic glaze sparingly as it is concentrated and sweet.
  • This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
  • Feel free to add additional vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers for variety.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/