Caprese Pasta Salad
If you love the classic Italian Caprese salad, with its simple yet perfect combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, then this Caprese Pasta Salad is a must-try!
It takes those fresh, vibrant flavors and turns them into a hearty, satisfying meal by tossing them with tender bowtie pasta and rich, herby basil pesto. The result? A dish that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavor, yet effortless to make.
Bonus: You can serve it warm or chilled! If you prefer it warm, let the pasta cool slightly instead of completely before adding the mozzarella, pesto, and balsamic vinegar.
What makes this dish even better is how quick and versatile it is. Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for a light lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or a refreshing picnic dish. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar (or reduced balsamic) adds a sweet and tangy contrast, while a pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a gentle kick. But make sure you use a high-quality balsamic vinegar: it makes all the difference!
Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 150 g farfalle pasta (cooked according to package instructions)
- 100 g basil pesto
- 300 g grape tomatoes, diced
- 200 g mozzarella, diced
For serving:
- fresh basil and balsamic vinegar
- a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and let it cool completely.
- Once cooled, toss the pasta with the diced tomatoes, mozzarella, and pesto until well combined.
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, or a pinch of chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
- Enjoy!
Notes
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