Description
A vibrant, refreshing dish that blends the classic flavors of Caprese salad with hearty pasta, perfect for summer gatherings or a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (such as rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced or mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
Instructions
1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente perfection. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely before assembling the salad.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Drizzle the olive oil over the top, and season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Gently toss the ingredients until they’re evenly distributed.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to reduce and thicken, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the glaze from the heat and let it cool slightly before drizzling it over the pasta salad.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the Caprese Pasta Salad and gently toss to combine. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.
Notes
The beauty of this Caprese Pasta Salad is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
– Add Grilled Vegetables: Incorporate grilled zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for a heartier salad.
– Include Protein: Shredded grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or sliced salami can transform this into a complete meal.
– Vegan Option: Swap mozzarella for cubed tofu or vegan cheese, and use maple or agave syrup in place of honey.
– Seasonal Variations: Add in-season produce, such as fresh figs or peaches.
– Flavor Enhancers: Sprinkle in chopped kalamata olives, toasted pine nuts, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 20