Delightful Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the delightful combination of flavors in a Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad. Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked pasta, enveloped in a vibrant green pesto, with juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness and creamy mozzarella balls that make your taste buds dance with joy. creamy chicken pasta recipe It’s like a party in your mouth!

Every time I prepare this dish, it transports me back to sun-soaked summer picnics where laughter fills the air and everyone’s taste buds are tantalized by the freshness of this salad. Whether you serve it at a casual family gathering or a fancy potluck, this dish is as versatile as your favorite playlist on road trips—perfect for any occasion!

I once made this dish for a friend’s barbecue, and let me tell you, the way everyone dove into it was like watching seagulls on a beach fight over fries—it was quite the spectacle!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: I recommend using rotini or farfalle; they hold onto the pesto beautifully.

• Fresh Basil: Choose bright green leaves that smell heavenly; freshness is key!

• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for plump, ripe ones that burst with sweetness when bitten.

• Mozzarella Balls: Use bocconcini for creamy richness; they’re like little cheese clouds!

• Pine Nuts: Toast them lightly to bring out their nutty flavor—it makes all the difference.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin oil will elevate your pesto’s flavor; go for quality here.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds depth and a salty kick.

• Garlic: Use fresh cloves for a robust aroma that complements the entire dish.

• Lemon Juice: A splash brightens everything up and ties the flavors together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this apple fritters recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in your pasta. beef and garlic butter pasta Cook until al dente according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes.

Prepare the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped before drizzling in olive oil while blending until smooth.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with your vibrant pesto sauce until every twist is coated beautifully.

Add Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. The colors should pop—like confetti at a party! For more inspiration, check out this shrimp and avocado bowls recipe.

Lemon Zest & Serve!: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and some zest. Mix well and serve immediately or chill for later enjoyment.

With every bite of this Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, you’ll experience layers of fresh flavors that scream summer! fresh summer salad option.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta first; it saves time and ensures everything else stays fresh. While the pasta cooks, prepare your pesto and chop the vegetables. This way, you can toss everything together while it’s warm.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. You can also swap out cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes or add olives for a salty kick. grilled shrimp bowl recipe Personalizing this salad makes it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy it cold or let it come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of summer picnics with friends, where laughter mixed with delicious bites made every moment unforgettable.

FAQ

What can I substitute for pesto in this salad?

Try using hummus or a simple olive oil and garlic dressing as alternatives.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a few hours in advance for flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and reduce stickiness.

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Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

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• Author: Larissa W.
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This delightful salad features perfectly cooked pasta swirled in homemade pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella balls. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to any gathering, from casual picnics to elegant potlucks. Quick to prepare, this salad is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, ensuring you have fresh flavors throughout the week.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz bocconcini mozzarella balls
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. Pulse until finely chopped. With the processor running, drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce until evenly coated.
4. Gently fold in cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
5. Finish with lemon juice and zest. Serve immediately or chill for later enjoyment.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 15mg