Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Featuring tender cavatappi pasta tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mini mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic-lemon vinaigrette, this salad combines classic Italian flavors in a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces cavatappi pasta
Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup grated pecorino cheese
- 2 garlic cloves (grated)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (halved)
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- Heaping 1 cup fresh basil leaves (torn, plus more for garnish)
- ¼ cup shaved pecorino cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to the package instructions until slightly past al dente. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread the pasta on a large plate or baking sheet to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, grated pecorino cheese, grated garlic cloves, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Toss the Salad: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with the vinaigrette. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, thinly sliced red onion, and torn basil leaves. Gently toss again to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Add the Final Touch: Sprinkle the shaved pecorino cheese over the salad and toss gently one last time. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if desired.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a beautiful presentation and serve immediately or chilled.
Notes
- This Caprese pasta salad is easy to prepare and ideal for warm weather meals.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients like ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Make the salad ahead of time and refrigerate; the flavors meld beautifully with a few hours of rest.
- For added texture, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or a handful of arugula.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
