Description
Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly blends the classic flavors of Italian caprese with a homemade basil pesto. Featuring al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil, this salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or light summer meals, it’s a quick and satisfying option that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. The addition of homemade pesto elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
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
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ a lemon (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Blend until coarsely mixed. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and torn basil leaves. Pour the pesto dressing over the salad and toss gently until coated.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg