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Caprese Pasta Salad with mozzarella balls, tomatoes, basil in a bowl.

Caprese Pasta Salad

5 from 1 vote
This Caprese Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer side dishmade with tender ditalini pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarellaballs, fresh basil, and an easy homemade balsamic dressing.  
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 428
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz Ditalini pasta (or any small noodle) cooked according to package directions
  • 8 oz Mozzarella balls
  • 2 tablespoon fresh basil chopped
  • 1 ½ cups grape or cherry tomatoes halved or quartered
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ⅔ cup olive oil
  • salt & pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
  2. 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.
  3. Once pasta is cooked rinse with cold water and drain. Add to large bowl with tomatoes, basil and mozzarella.
  4. Drizzle balsamic over the top and mix to combine.
  5. Chill in refrigerator until ready to serve. Recommend at least 30 minutes but can serve immediately.

Notes

Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds its shape.
Rinse pasta with cold water to cool it quickly.
Add extra basil just before serving for the freshest flavor.
If making ahead, reserve some dressing to refresh the salad before serving.