So I love salad in general, but I tend to love it even more when there is pasta in it. Anyone else?! Considering it's 4th of July weekend I thought, what better time to share a new pasta salad recipe?! Jump to Recipe
Now I'm a big fan of Caprese in general. What's not to like about tomato, mozzarella and basil with balsamic drizzled over the top? Especially when the mozzarella is in the form of balls, because for some reason those just taste better to me. I typically make them on skewers as an appetizer or thrown on a crostini in bruschetta form, but as I was brainstorming new pasta salads for summer this popped into my head. My favorite pasta salad is my Italian version which is already up here. I could probably eat it every single day. But variety is the spice of life, so while thinking of other pasta salads I thought this one would be a hit. And I loved it! I hope you will too.
How to make Caprese Pasta Salad:
Now the best part about this pasta salad recipe (aside from taste of course) is how completely EASY it is. You can throw it together in 20 minutes, and it only takes that long because you have to boil the pasta. Simply chop up some grape or cherry tomatoes and fresh basil and toss together with pasta. I used ditalini, but any small noodle works fine! Then drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
How to make the balsamic vinaigrette:
You can totally used store bought balsamic vinaigrette. Zero judgement and quick in a pinch. I like to make my own though, and it barely takes any additional time. All I do is mix together a high quality balsamic vinegar with dijon mustard, honey, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, pepper and olive oil. I use a salad shaker and shake it all up in there, or you can whisk together in a bowl. Pour over your pasta salad, mix well and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Can you make Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely!! And one of my favorite things about making pasta salad for cookouts/events/bbqs is exactly this. I honestly think it tastes BETTER after hanging out in the fridge for a few hours or even a day prior to serving. Make it, toss it in the fridge then go about whatever else you need to do and it'll be ready when you need it!
Does Caprese Pasta Salad make good leftovers?
Huge yes here too! I often make pasta salad JUST to keep in the refrigerator for snacking/lunches/sides during a busy week. Make sure you cover it, and it'll last around 4 days. Pro tip: if you have leftover balsamic vinaigrette keep it in the fridge and add to pasta salad to fresh up later if you'd like! I always send some with friends and family after we host as well.
What should I serve with Caprese Pasta Salad?
Honestly this is great all on it's own or as a side dish to literally any main. My favorites are to accompany burgers, steaks, chicken, brats, hot dogs, ribs or pork tenderloin on the grill!
Cast Iron Short Rib Smash Burger with Best Burger Sauce
Enjoy and have a safe and fabulous 4th of July!
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Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Add balsamic, lemon juice, honey, dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt and pepper to a salad shaker and shaker well to combine. Or whisk together in small bowl. Set aside.
- Once pasta is cooked rinse with cold water and drain. Add to large bowl with tomatoes, basil and mozzarella.
- Drizzle balsamic over the top and mix to combine.
- Chill in refrigerator until ready to serve.
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