Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, a delightful dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This refreshing salad features al dente pasta tossed in a homemade basil pesto, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella balls. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a light main course. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep, this salad shines beautifully at room temperature, making it a go-to recipe for warm-weather dining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces fusilli or medium shell pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup small mozzarella balls (ciliegine, drained)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Aged balsamic vinegar (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup lightly toasted pine nuts
- 2 small garlic cloves
- 3 cups fresh basil leaves
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water.
- 2. In a food processor, blend pine nuts and garlic until finely chopped. Add basil, olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
- 3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto. Gently fold in cherry tomatoes and mozzarella.
- 4. Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with aged balsamic vinegar. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- 5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 12mg