Caprese Pasta Salad
A vibrant, no-fuss salad combining fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil tossed with golden pasta. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick meals, this dish is ready in 25 minutes with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Easy Chicken Recipes
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
12 oz fusilli or penne pasta
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella (bocconcini balls), cubed
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Optional: grilled smoked chicken strips for protein
Instructions
Boil pasta until al dente (10–12 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water for adjustments.
Chop fresh basil. Toss cherry tomatoes and mozzarella in a large bowl with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Season lightly.
Once pasta is cooked, rinse under cold water until cool. Add to the bowl and mix gently.
Stir in oregano and pepper. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Before serving, add reserved pasta water (1 tbsp at a time) to achieve desired consistency.
Notes
Adds fresh basil just before serving for crispness
Mozzarella can be substituted with halloumi or feta
Storage: Keeps in airtight container up to 3 days
Optional low-carb version: Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta
Find it online: https://viralchickenrecipes.com/caprese-pasta-salad/