Description
A refreshing and indulgent pasta salad featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and tender pasta tossed in a luscious, tangy dressing. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces (340g) short pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne)
- 1.5 cups (225g) halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup (150g) mozzarella pearls or cubes
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- 1/3 cup (75mL) mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons (30mL) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15mL) balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil 12 ounces (340g) of pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and torn basil leaves.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is well-coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Give the salad a final stir before serving and garnish with additional basil leaves if desired.
Notes
For the freshest flavors, buy ingredients close to serving time. Store basil in a glass of water in the fridge to keep it vibrant. If the pasta seems dry after chilling, add a splash of olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 10
Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, summer salad, Italian pasta salad, party dish