Best Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the classic ingredients of a Caprese salad—fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil—with the heartiness of pasta. This refreshing salad is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light meal on its own.

Ingredients

• Vinaigrette Dressing:
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Caprese Pasta Salad:
• 1 pound dried pasta (farfalle or other small pasta recommended)
• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette:
   In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta firm.
3. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil. Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette dressing and toss everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people. The prep time is around 15 minutes, and the cooking time is about 10 minutes, bringing the total time to approximately 25 minutes.

Variations

• Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Vegetarian Twist: Mix in roasted vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Different Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli for variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This pasta salad is best served cold, so no need to reheat. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing while stored, you can add a splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving to refresh it.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
   While fresh basil is preferred for its flavor, you can use dried basil in the dressing if fresh is unavailable.
2. How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
   Rinsing the pasta with cold water after cooking helps to prevent sticking.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the pasta and ingredients fresh.
4. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
5. What other ingredients can I add?
   You can add ingredients like olives, artichoke hearts, or even roasted red peppers for additional flavor.
6. How long does the dressing last?
   The vinaigrette can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
7. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Yes, you can substitute with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
8. Is it okay to use larger pasta?
   While smaller pasta is recommended, you can use larger pasta if preferred; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
9. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
   You can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different but tasty dressing.
10. Can I serve this warm?
    While it’s typically served cold, you can serve it warm right after mixing if desired.

Conclusion

Best Caprese Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a quick weeknight dinner, it combines the freshness of a traditional Caprese salad with the satisfying heartiness of pasta. Enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature, and feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences!

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