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Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy Delight

This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad showcases the beauty of summer produce with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz short pasta (fusilli or penne)
  • 1 cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella or burrata for richer texture
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved; heirloom tomatoes can be alternative
For the Dressing
  • 2 tbsp olive oil optional, high-quality extra virgin
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper freshly cracked, to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with basil pesto, using a spatula to coat evenly. Add cherry tomatoes and mozzarella.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Toss all ingredients together until well combined, ensuring every piece is coated with pesto.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Best enjoyed within 2 days. Add pesto just before serving if making ahead.

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