Description
Discover the refreshing and savory Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, a perfect summer dish combining fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and rich pesto in a creamy dressing. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners, this Italian pasta salad offers vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls, cubed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: balsamic glaze or lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by cooking your favorite pasta in boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine the cooled pasta with chopped basil, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cubes, and grated Parmesan. Pour the pesto dressing over the mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Garnish with additional basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
- To make ahead, prepare the salad a few hours in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- If the pasta absorbs some dressing over time, add a splash of olive oil or pesto before serving.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
- For added protein, include cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 380 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 25mg