Fresh and Flavorful Caprese Pasta Salad

The Perfect Summer Side Dish

Get ready to elevate your summer cookouts and picnics with this delicious and easy-to-make pasta salad! Bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With tender pasta noodles, fragrant basil, juicy grape tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic dressing, it’s the ultimate combination of comfort and freshness in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz pasta noodles (such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• For the balsamic dressing:
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Serving Size: Makes approximately 4 servings

Cook Time Duration: Approximately 10-12 minutes

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, halve the grape tomatoes and thinly slice the fresh basil leaves.
3. Make the balsamic dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the pasta salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta noodles, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced fresh basil leaves.
5. Dress the salad: Drizzle the balsamic dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the mixing bowl, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Chill and serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Enjoy cold or at room temperature as a refreshing and satisfying side dish.

Pro Tips:

• Customize to your taste: Feel free to customize this pasta salad with your favorite ingredients. Add in some diced cucumbers, sliced olives, or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
• Meal prep friendly: This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prep lunches or as a quick and easy grab-and-go option for busy weekdays.
• Add protein: Turn this pasta salad into a complete meal by adding some grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas on top for a protein boost. It’s a great way to make the salad more filling and satisfying.

Final Thoughts:

With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and easy preparation, this Fresh and Flavorful Pasta Salad is sure to become a staple in your summer recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a potluck picnic, or as a light and satisfying lunch, it’s the perfect way to enjoy the bountiful flavors of the season. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and nutritious pasta salad!