Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Summer Dish

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the vibrant flavors of fresh basil pesto with the classic ingredients of a Caprese salad. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how this dish has become a staple at summer gatherings and picnics, bringing a taste of Italy to our tables. The combination of al dente pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.

People love Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad not only for its delicious taste but also for its convenience. It can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, while the rich, herbaceous pesto ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, this pasta salad is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (I prefer rotini or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Preparing the Pasta

1. **Boil Water**: Start by filling a large pot with water and adding a generous pinch of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. The salt not only flavors the pasta but also helps it cook evenly. 2. **Cook the Pasta**: Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. I usually cook it according to the package instructions, which is typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 3. **Drain and Rinse**: When the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it in a colander. To stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly, rinse the pasta under cold running water. This also helps to remove excess starch, which can make the salad gummy. 4. **Set Aside**: Allow the pasta to drain completely and then transfer it to a large mixing bowl. I like to let it sit for a few minutes to ensure it’s not too hot when I add the other ingredients.

Preparing the Vegetables and Cheese

5. **Halve the Cherry Tomatoes**: While the pasta is cooling, take your cherry tomatoes and slice them in half. This step is crucial as it allows the tomatoes to release their juices, which will enhance the flavor of the salad. 6. **Prepare the Mozzarella**: If you’re using larger mozzarella balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces. If you have the smaller bocconcini, simply halve them. The creamy texture of the mozzarella pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients. 7. **Chop the Basil**: Take your fresh basil leaves and roughly chop them. I love using fresh basil because it adds a fragrant aroma and a burst of flavor to the salad. You can also tear the leaves if you prefer a more rustic look.

Making the Dressing

8. **Combine Ingredients**: In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This combination creates a rich and flavorful dressing that ties all the ingredients together. 9. **Season**: Add salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with a pinch of each and adjust according to my preference. Remember, the pesto may already have some salt, so taste as you go!

Assembling the Salad

10. **Combine Pasta and Vegetables**: In the large mixing bowl with the cooled pasta, add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil. Gently toss everything together to combine. 11. **Add the Dressing**: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. I like to drizzle it evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently fold the dressing into the salad, being careful not to break the mozzarella. 12. **Taste and Adjust**: At this point, I always taste the salad to see if it needs any more seasoning. If you feel it needs a little more zing, you can add a splash more balsamic vinegar or a pinch of salt.

Finishing Touches

13. **Add Pine Nuts (Optional)**: If you’re using pine nuts, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re golden and fragrant. Once cooled, sprinkle them over the salad for added crunch and flavor. 14. **Chill**: For the best flavor, I recommend letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. 15. **Serve**: When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. You can garnish with a few extra basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for presentation.

Storage Tips

16. **Store Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for about 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to

Conclusion:

In summary, this Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their meal game with minimal effort. The vibrant flavors of fresh basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella come together in a delightful harmony that is sure to impress your family and friends. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it also offers a refreshing taste that is perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or even a quick weeknight dinner. For serving suggestions, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or toss in some arugula for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options, to suit your dietary preferences. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating other seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to make this dish even more colorful and nutritious. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad a try! It’s not only easy to whip up, but it also allows for plenty of creativity in the kitchen. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or any tips you discovered along the way. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together and inspire each other with our culinary adventures! So grab your ingredients and get started on this delicious recipe—you won’t regret it! Print