Description
A refreshing and vibrant Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and vibrant pesto for a perfect meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or diced mozzarella
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (for pesto dressing)
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ a lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, Parmesan, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or extra olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.
- Combine the Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto dressing, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls.
- Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the salad for freshness and presentation.
- For best flavor, let the salad sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a budget-friendly option, swap pine nuts for walnuts in the pesto.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or arugula for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing, Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg