...
Go Back
–+ servings
Caprese pasta salad bowl topped with fresh basil and rich balsamic glaze drizzle.

Easy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

No ratings yet
Aliana Recipes
Juicy burst cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella pearls mingle with tender pasta in this refreshing summer salad. This Caprese pasta salad is tossed in a garlic-herb dressing and finished with a sweet balsamic glaze for the perfect potluck side.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings:6 people
Course:Dinner
Cuisine:American, Italian
Calories:380kcal
Cost:$15
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Radiatore pasta Or rotini/fusilli
  • 12 oz cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet and ripe
  • 8 oz fresh small mozzarella balls Drained well
  • 10 large basil leaves Cut into ribbons
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil High quality
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning For herb flavor
  • 1 clove garlic, grated Fresh is best
  • 1 pinch white sugar Balances acidity
  • salt and black pepper To taste
  • balsamic glaze For drizzling

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Colander For draining
  • 1 Small mixing bowl For dressing
  • 1 Large salad bowl For tossing
  • 1 Whisk For emulsifying

Method
 

  1. Cook the radiatore pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture.
  2. Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
  3. Whisk the olive oil, Italian seasoning, grated garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl while the pasta cools.
  4. Combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella balls in a large serving bowl.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until every noodle and tomato is evenly coated.
  6. Stir in the fresh basil ribbons just before serving to ensure the leaves stay bright green and aromatic.
  7. Finish the dish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze right over the top for a sweet, tangy contrast.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Tear the basil leaves instead of chopping them with a knife to prevent bruising and keep the edges bright green. Add the balsamic glaze just before serving to keep the pasta looking clean and vibrant.