Description
Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is a refreshing summer dish combining mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with tender pasta, finished with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (diced or mozzarella balls)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped or torn
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Optional: olives (black or kalamata), diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, grilled chicken or shrimp
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
2. In a small saucepan combine balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10–12 minutes until thickened. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper, then toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle the cooled balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving and add any optional toppings if desired.
Notes
This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead; add the basil and balsamic glaze right before serving for the freshest flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe gluten-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 25mg