Description
A refreshing pasta salad combining classic Caprese flavors with vibrant basil pesto, perfect for warm weather meals or picnics.
Ingredients
- Pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- Basil pesto
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mozzarella balls
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking your pasta of choice according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool completely.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Gently: Using a spatula, toss the ingredients together without breaking the mozzarella.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days. For added flavor, stir in extra pesto or olive oil before serving leftovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Caprese, Pasta Salad, Pesto, Italian, Vegetarian