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Summer Delight Caprese Pasta Salad

Refreshing Summer Delight Caprese Pasta Salad You’ll Love

Enjoy this Summer Delight Caprese Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish filled with cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic-lemon vinaigrette.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 51 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Tri-color Rotini Pasta Substitute with farfalle or gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Salad
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Pat dry to prevent diluting the vinaigrette.
  • 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Pearls Use soft, water-packed pearls for the best texture.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Torn leaves enhance both presentation and flavor.
  • 1/4 medium Red Onion (optional) Slice thinly for a milder flavor and can be omitted.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil High-quality oil enhances the overall flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Balsamic Glaze Provides sweetness and depth.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is preferred for optimal flavor.
  • 1-2 cloves Minced Garlic Adjust quantity based on your preference.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Can be replaced with individual herbs like oregano or thyme.
  • to taste none Salt and Black Pepper Layered seasoning recommended for depth of flavor.
  • to taste none Red-Pepper Flakes (optional) Use to taste for subtle heat.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • small mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add tri-color rotini pasta and cook for 9-11 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cool water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled, drained pasta with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella pearls. If using, add thinly sliced red onion. Gently toss to combine.
  3. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic glaze, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Incorporate Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until emulsified.
  4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with additional ingredients like roasted veggies or nuts. Serve in a chilled bowl for enhanced presentation.

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