Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella is a refreshing dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. This vibrant salad combines al dente fusilli pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed in a light dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress and tantalize your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: No cooking needed beyond boiling pasta
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (about 8 oz)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil leaves, and fresh mozzarella balls.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. Customize by adding olives or avocado for a unique twist. This salad can be made ahead of time; just add dressing before serving to maintain freshness.