Fried Green Tomato Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
This Fried Green Tomato Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful twist on classic Caprese, combining crispy fried green tomatoes with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a tangy balsamic mayo dressing, all tossed with tender orzo pasta and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture. Perfect for a summer side dish or a light main course.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Salad Ingredients
- 1/2 lb pasta (orzo or any small shape)
- 2 large green tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced or small balls
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or substitute 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (white balsamic preferred for color)
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crispy breadcrumbs
- Optional: balsamic glaze drizzle (for an extra Caprese touch)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In the bottom of a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, grated garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until smooth and well combined to create the pasta salad dressing.
- Toss the Salad: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing bowl. Then add the diced green tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and chopped basil leaves. Gently mix everything until well coated with the dressing and evenly distributed.
- Add the Breadcrumbs: Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy breadcrumbs on top of the pasta salad to maintain their crunchiness. Optionally, drizzle with balsamic glaze for additional flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use orzo or any small pasta shape for the best texture and blend with the salad ingredients.
- If you prefer to avoid mayo, substitute with extra virgin olive oil for a lighter dressing.
- White balsamic vinegar keeps the salad’s color bright without compromising the tangy flavor.
- Add breadcrumbs just before serving to maintain their crispness, although they can stay crunchy for several hours mixed in.
- This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Optional balsamic glaze adds an elegant finishing touch and deeper sweetness.
Keywords: Fried Green Tomato Pasta Salad, Caprese Pasta Salad, Orzo Salad, Vegetarian Pasta Salad, Summer Salad, Balsamic Pasta Salad
