Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad combines the classic Italian flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil in a hearty, refreshing pasta salad. Tossed in a bright balsamic vinaigrette, it’s the perfect dish for summer gatherings, picnics, or easy weeknight meals — light, colorful, and full of Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients
1 pound farfalle pasta
1 (12 oz) package heirloom cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, diced into ½-inch pieces
6 oz can pitted black olives, halved or sliced
1 large bunch fresh basil, shredded
For the vinaigrette:
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus 2 tbsp to coat the pasta
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
3 tsp white balsamic vinegar
2 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the farfalle for 2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cover, and let it cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients: olive oil, balsamic vinegars, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, and basil.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl, toss everything together, and let rest at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally drizzling with more olive oil just before serving.
Notes
Use fresh basil for the best aroma and flavor — dried won’t give the same freshness.
Cool the pasta completely before mixing to prevent melting the cheese.
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
For more flavor, include sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers, or marinated artichokes.
Keep extra vinaigrette on hand to refresh the salad before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling, Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
