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Caprese Pasta Salad
Introducing my Caprese Pasta Salad - a lively symphony of Italian flavors that will transport your taste buds to sunny Tuscany! This vibrant dish combines al dente farfalle, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic fresh basil, all tossed in a heavenly homemade balsamic glaze that's both tangy and sweet. The result is an irresistibly fresh and colorful salad that's not just a feast for the eyes, but a delight to your palate as well.
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Chilling Time
30 mins
Total Time
52 mins
Servings: 6
Calories: 427 kcal
Course:
Side Dish , Salad
Cuisine:
Italian
Ingredients
- 12 ounces farfalle pasta or other small shaped pasta like penne or rotini
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 ounces bocconcini or mozzarella cubed
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
- ⅓ cup olive oil extra virgin
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze or reduction and minced garlic. Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. You can also add more fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for additional flavor.
Cup of Yum
Notes
- Choose your pasta: This recipe calls for farfalle, but penne or rotini work great too. Remember, cook the pasta to al dente for the perfect bite.
- Select a high-quality balsamic glaze: A great balsamic glaze can really make your salad shine. Look for an authentic, well-balanced glaze for the best results.
- Fresh is best: Use the freshest mozzarella and basil you can find. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the flavor of this salad.
- Season to taste: Don't forget to adjust the salt and pepper to your preference before serving. Everyone's taste differs, and what's perfect for one might not be for another.
- Plan ahead: This salad tastes best after it's had time to chill and let the flavors meld together. Make sure to account for at least 30 minutes of refrigeration before serving.
Nutrition Information
Serving
1serving
Calories
427kcal
(21%)
Carbohydrates
46g
(15%)
Protein
15g
(30%)
Fat
21g
(32%)
Saturated Fat
5g
(25%)
Polyunsaturated Fat
2g
Monounsaturated Fat
9g
Cholesterol
14mg
(5%)
Sodium
35mg
(1%)
Potassium
220mg
(6%)
Fiber
2g
(8%)
Sugar
3g
(6%)
Vitamin A
393IU
(8%)
Vitamin C
9mg
(10%)
Calcium
158mg
(16%)
Iron
1mg
(6%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 427
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 427kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 46g | 15% |
| Protein | 15g | 30% |
| Fat | 21g | 32% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 14mg | 5% |
| Sodium | 35mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 220mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 393IU | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 9mg | 10% |
| Calcium | 158mg | 16% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.