Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: Fresh Flavor for Any Occasion

This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad combines rich basil pesto, creamy mozzarella, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a vibrant dish perfect for summer.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Chilling Time 15

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces short pasta fusilli, penne, or any short pasta

For the Dressing

1 cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought
2 tablespoons olive oil optional, enhances flavors

For the Salad

2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella diced or mini balls
to taste salt
to taste pepper

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup grilled chicken diced
1 cup roasted vegetables

Equipment

Large pot
Colander
mixing bowl
Cutting Board
spatula

Method

Directions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
Prepare the ingredients by halving the cherry tomatoes and dicing the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
Combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella in a large bowl. Fold in the basil pesto until evenly coated.
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to incorporate.
Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to meld the flavors. Chill if preferred.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and allow the salad to chill for enhanced taste.

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