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Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad: Refreshing Flavor for Every Occasion

A vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad bursting with fresh ingredients, perfect for gatherings and summer meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil substitute with avocado oil if desired
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar use red wine vinegar for a lighter taste
  • 1/2 unit Fresh Lemon Juice substitute with white wine vinegar if necessary
  • 1 clove Minced Garlic fresh is preferred, garlic powder can be a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning omit if using fresh herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt sea salt can be used as an alternative
  • Pinch Black Pepper freshly cracked gives the best flavor
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Dried Pasta (Farfalle or Other Small Pasta) gluten-free pasta can be used
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Pearls (or Cubed Fresh Mozzarella) burrata can be an alternative
  • 1 pint Grape Tomatoes (halved) cherry tomatoes can work well
  • Handful Fresh Basil Leaves (thinly sliced) substituting with arugula can add flavor

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Caprese Pasta Salad
  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and let the dressing sit for 5-10 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes. When al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil. Gently stir to combine.
  4. Drizzle the homemade dressing over the pasta mixture, toss gently to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. For best flavor, let the salad rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra basil leaves.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust the dressing to your taste and allow the pasta salad to rest for enhanced flavors.

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