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Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe


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4.9 from 23 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the addition of pesto and pasta. It’s perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish for a barbecue.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces cooked pasta (such as rotini or bowtie)

Caprese Salad Mix:

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
  3. Add Dressing: Add the pesto and olive oil, then toss until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Optional Drizzle: If using, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
  5. Chill: Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

Notes

  • Great as a side dish or light main course.
  • Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • This salad can be made a day in advance—just toss again before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg