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Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad blends the timeless flavors of basil, tomato, and mozzarella with tender pasta and vibrant pesto for a bright, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This salad is a flavorful, flexible, and nutrient-rich favorite that can be made ahead, customized to dietary needs, and enjoyed year-round.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 12 ounces of short pasta such as penne fusilli, or farfalle
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini or diced mozzarella
  • ¼ cup torn fresh basil leaves

For the Pesto Dressing:

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts or substitute with walnuts for a more economical option
  • 1 garlic clove
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of half a lemon optional, for added brightness

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

  • Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Prepare the Pesto Dressing:

  • Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the fresh basil, grated Parmesan, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even blending.
  • Adjust the Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or more olive oil until the desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding lemon juice for a touch of brightness if you like.

Assemble the Salad:

  • Combine the Pasta and Pesto: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto dressing, stirring gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
  • Add the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Carefully fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls, mixing just enough to distribute them without breaking them apart.

Garnish and Serve:

  • Top with Basil: Scatter torn basil leaves over the top for added freshness and a beautiful finish.
  • Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and develop for the best taste.

How to Serve:

  • As a Side Dish: A perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, steak, or seafood.
  • As a Main Course: Enjoy as a light meal paired with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying, complete dish.
  • At a Potluck or BBQ: Great for sharing, easy to transport, and sure to be a favorite among guests.
  • With a Glass of Wine: Complements white wines or light rosés beautifully, enhancing the freshness of the salad.
  • For Meal Prep: Ideal for lunches—store in airtight containers for a quick, flavorful, and portable meal.

Notes

Toast the Pine Nuts: If you’re using pine nuts in your pesto, lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This simple step enhances their natural oils and deepens their flavor, making your pesto even more aromatic and rich.
Make the Pesto Ahead of Time: Pesto can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week, or frozen for up to three months. To keep the pesto from oxidizing and turning brown, add a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing it in a container.
Add a Zesty Twist: For a tangier pesto, try adding a tablespoon of lemon zest or a splash of balsamic vinegar. The added acidity will cut through the richness of the olive oil and cheese, giving the dressing a bright and balanced flavor.
Customize the Cheese: While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can switch things up with burrata, feta, or goat cheese to vary the texture and taste. Burrata offers a luxuriously creamy center, while feta or goat cheese bring a tangy, salty note to the salad.
Use Freshly Cooked Pasta: For optimal texture and flavor, use freshly cooked pasta that has been cooled quickly after boiling. Avoid letting it sit too long, as it can become mushy and absorb too much of the dressing.
Mix the Salad Gently: When combining all the ingredients, toss the salad carefully to preserve the shape of the mozzarella balls and keep the cherry tomatoes from breaking. Gentle mixing helps retain the fresh look and feel of the salad.
Add Extra Protein: To make the salad more filling and turn it into a complete meal, consider adding protein sources such as grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon. These additions will boost the flavor and nutritional value, making the dish more satisfying.