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–+ servings
Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad: Fresh, Easy, and Full of Flavor!

This Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that combines flavorful ingredients for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 22 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar White balsamic can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice Lime juice is a great alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Minced Garlic Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Individual herbs like oregano or thyme work well too.
  • to taste Kosher Salt & Black Pepper Sea salt and freshly ground pepper can substitute easily.
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Dried Pasta (Farfalle or Other Small Pasta) Gluten-free pasta is a suitable alternative.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Pearls Cubed fresh mozzarella works wonderfully too.
  • 2 cups Grape Tomatoes You can use cherry tomatoes or any preferred tomato variety.
  • a handful Fresh Basil Leaves Try replacing with parsley or mint for a twist.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Final seasoning adjustments.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • small bowl or jar
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Whisk or shake until well blended and emulsified.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil leaves. Gently toss to blend.
  4. Drizzle vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning with more vinaigrette or salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Serve immediately in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnishing with extra basil leaves if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh but can be chilled for about 30 minutes if preferred cold. Pair it with grilled meats or crusty bread.

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