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Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad Recipe Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad Recipe

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Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad Recipe

I whipped up a vibrant Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. It's a quick, refreshing dish that's perfect for any summer meal or picnic.

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Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for any occasion. Imagine the delightful combination of cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and pesto mingling with perfectly cooked short pasta. Topped with fragrant fresh basil, this salad is a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether served immediately or chilled for later, it's a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and satisfying.

Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz any short pasta pasta
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup mini mozzarella balls
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, pesto, and fresh basil.
  3. Toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

What You Will Need

What you will need to make pesto pasta caprese salad

  • Pasta: Provides a hearty base, absorbing flavors from the pesto and balancing the freshness of tomatoes and mozzarella.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of sweetness and acidity, complementing the creamy mozzarella and rich pesto.
  • Mini mozzarella balls: Offers a creamy, mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy tomatoes and aromatic pesto.
  • Pesto: Infuses the dish with a rich, herby flavor, tying together all the ingredients with its garlicky, nutty taste.
  • Fresh basil: Enhances the salad with a fresh, aromatic note, adding a pop of color and extra layer of flavor.

Tools and Instruments Required

What tools/instruments will be needed to make Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad Recipe

  • Pot: Essential for boiling pasta to the perfect texture.
  • Colander: Drains water from cooked pasta efficiently.
  • Large mixing bowl: Combines all ingredients evenly.
  • Wooden spoon: Gently tosses pasta with other ingredients without breaking them.
  • Measuring cups: Ensures accurate portions of pesto and other ingredients.
pesto-pasta-caprese-salad-recipe

Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad Recipe

A fresh and flavorful pasta salad with pesto, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
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Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Course Salad
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Ingredients:  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz Pasta any short pasta
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Balls mini
  • 1/2 cup Pesto
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil chopped

Instructions: 

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, pesto, and fresh basil.
  • Toss everything together until well coated. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Notes:

This salad is perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch.

Nutrition value:

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Keywords:

Keyword Caprese, Pasta, Pesto
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Make Ahead and Freezing Tips

Make Ahead Instructions

  • Cook pasta and let it cool completely.
  • Mix pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, pesto, and basil.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Freezing Instructions

  • Cook pasta and let it cool.
  • Mix pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, pesto, and basil.
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • Freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Using mini mozzarella balls in this Pesto Pasta Caprese Salad not only adds a creamy texture but also helps balance the pesto's strong flavors, making each bite perfectly harmonious.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ:
How long does it take to make this recipe?
It takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works just fine.
What type of pasta works best?
Any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 days.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
It's typically served cold, but you can serve it warm if you prefer.

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