Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of cavatappi pasta, fresh mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes, topped with a homemade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound cavatappi pasta
- 16 ounces mozzarella pearls or ciliegine
- 2 pints grape tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
- ½ cups fresh basil, julienned
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to boil and add one tablespoon of salt. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al-dente. Drain and rinse with cold water, allowing it to cool.
- While the pasta cooks, halve the tomatoes and place them in a large bowl.
- Add the mozzarella pearls and basil to the bowl with the tomatoes.
- In a small mason jar or measuring cup, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir or shake until well combined.
- Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Pour half of the dressing over the pasta and toss to coat evenly. Adjust dressing as desired.
- Store the remaining dressing separately to revive the pasta later, as it will absorb the dressing over time.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like oregano or parsley.
This pasta salad can be made a few hours in advance for a better taste as the flavors meld together.
Keep any leftover dressing to revitalize the pasta before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg