Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad is a beautiful summer salad that is light, fresh and so easy to make! It is perfect for a summer bbq or picnic!
Servings: 4 people
Ingredients
- 12 ounces bow tie pasta Cooked, drained and cooled.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved or whole
- 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Ciliegine (cherry size balls)
- 3 tablespoons Fresh Basil chopped or shredded
- 1 batch Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe below.
Optional Garnish
- 2 tablespoons Grated Parmesan Cheese or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients
- 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt add more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper add more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or fresh herbs
Instructions
- First, boil your pasta according to the package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, make the balsamic vinaigrette by whisking all of the ingredients to combine and set aside. *see notes
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and run under cold water for about 3 - 5 minutes or until the pasta is completely cooled. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl and add the tomatoes, mozzarella and chopped basil.
- Finally, pour the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Garnish with parmesan and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container until ready to serve.
Notes
If you like lots of dressing, make a double batch of the balsamic vinaigrette.