Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad combines fresh grape tomatoes, bocconcini mozzarella, and basil tossed with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and oregano for a flavorful salad. Cold cooked pasta adds body and makes it a filling side or light main. A balsamic glaze drizzle finishes the dish with a touch of sweetness and brightness. The salad balances fresh, tangy, and herby flavors with tender pasta and cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups grape tomato halved
- 8 oz bocconcini (small fresh mozzarella balls)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 4 tablespoons basil divided, chopped
- ½ teaspoon oregano dried
- crushed red pepper flakes dash
- salt to taste, kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, kosher salt and freshly ground
- 8 oz pasta (I like orecchiette)
- balsamic glaze for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, 2 tablespoons of the basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir until tomatoes and cheese are well coated. Let sit for 30 minutes.
- Cook the pasta to al dente, according to package instructions, making sure you salt the water. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water.
- Add the pasta to the bowl of tomatoes and mozzarella. Stir until combined. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of basil. Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve.
Notes
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best freshness.
- For gluten-free options, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free varieties without altering the recipe balance.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6 Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 289
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 289kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 31g | 10% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 14mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 32mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 202mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 484IU | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 7mg | 8% |
| Calcium | 153mg | 15% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.