Print

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Summer Salad with Balsamic Drizzle

fresh Caprese pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy fresh Caprese pasta salad featuring short pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings and light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (pearls or bocconcini), drained
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts or walnuts
  • Optional: grilled chicken strips or sautéed shrimp for protein boost
  • Optional: vegan mozzarella alternatives for dairy-free version

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of short pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water to cool quickly. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. While pasta cooks, halve 2 cups of cherry tomatoes and tear or chop 1 cup of fresh basil leaves. Drain 8 ounces of mozzarella pearls.
  4. Add tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella to the cooled pasta. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the ingredients.
  5. Toss gently but thoroughly to mix without breaking the mozzarella.
  6. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss lightly again to distribute seasoning.
  7. Drizzle about 3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the salad. Either drizzle just before serving or toss gently to blend flavors.
  8. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. If chilling, add balsamic glaze just before serving.

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to prevent sticking. Toss gently to avoid breaking mozzarella. If balsamic glaze is too thick, thin with warm water before drizzling. Salt at the end to avoid drying tomatoes. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days; toss gently before serving again. Not recommended to reheat.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, summer salad, balsamic glaze, easy pasta salad, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, quick salad

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-5-ingredient-summer-salad-with-balsamic-drizzle/