Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Easy Summer Delight
A vibrant pasta salad featuring fresh basil pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes, and pasta for a refreshing summer dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
- Add the basil pesto, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss until well combined.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Custom toppings can include pine nuts or additional herbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 300 milligrams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 12 grams
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
Keywords: Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, summer salad, pasta salad recipe