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Easy Caprese Pasta Salad

Easy Caprese Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist on Italian Flavor

Discover Easy Caprese Pasta Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces farfalle pasta noodles Any pasta shape like rotini or penne can be used.
For the Salad
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Sliced in half; heirloom tomatoes can also be used.
  • 8 ounces bocconcini balls Sliced in half; fresh mozzarella or burrata work as substitutes.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil Chopped; arugula can be substituted for a peppery twist.
For the Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil High-quality extra virgin is best.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar Opt for high-quality vinegar.
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar Contributes to the dressing's tartness.
  • 2 cloves garlic Shredded or minced; garlic powder can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise Can be omitted for a lighter version.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Enhances flavor with Italian herb notes.
  • to taste salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • to taste pepper Adds a touch of spice.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 10-12 minutes for al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it off. Toss the pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and set it aside.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled farfalle pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced bocconcini balls. Sprinkle ¼ cup of freshly chopped basil on top. Pour approximately ¾ of the prepared dressing over the mixture and gently toss with a spatula until all ingredients are beautifully coated.
  4. Taste the Easy Caprese Pasta Salad for seasoning. Adjust with additional salt, pepper, or dressing as desired. Serve the salad immediately or let it marinate for enhanced flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Avoid freezing for best results. Serve cold or at room temperature with additional dressing if desired.

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