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