Caprese Pasta Salad
Tired of salads that taste like disappointment? This Caprese pasta salad actually delivers. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in a dish that screams fresh. The balsamic dressing adds a tangy kick, making every bite taste like summer. It’s light but satisfying, simple but flavorful, and—best of all—ready in minutes. Serve it as a side, a main, or eat it straight from the bowl at midnight. No judgment here. Whether you need a quick meal or a party hit, this salad wins every time. Ready to impress yourself? Let’s make it happen.
Caprese Pasta Salad
A fresh, vibrant Caprese pasta salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. Simple, quick, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta rotini or penne hold the dressing best
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (sweet, juicy, and worth it)
- 8 oz mozzarella balls because cheese makes everything better
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves torn (adds that perfect freshness)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil go for the good stuff
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar the secret to bold flavor
- 1 garlic clove minced (because garlic belongs in everything)
- 1 tsp honey balances out the acidity
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper adds a little bite
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
- Chop tomatoes, tear basil, and drain mozzarella while the pasta cools.
- Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Toss pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle with dressing and mix well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors blend (or just dig in immediately).
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 8%
- Vitamin C: 12%
- Potassium: 9%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Use whole wheat pasta if you’re pretending to be healthy.
- Swap honey for maple syrup if that’s your thing.
- Add grilled chicken if you want more protein.
- Let it sit longer for an even better flavor infusion.
- Store leftovers in the fridge—but good luck having any.
