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Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 21 reviews

This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with al dente pasta coated in a flavorful homemade pesto dressing. It’s a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or diced mozzarella
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

For the Pesto Dressing:

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
  • 1 clove garlic
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of ½ a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Pesto Dressing: Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, Parmesan, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Adjust the Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or extra olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.
  3. Assemble the Salad: Combine the Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto dressing, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. Add the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Top with Basil: Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the salad for freshness and presentation. Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: For best flavor, let the salad sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, Caprese salad, Pasta Salad, Pesto Salad

Find it online: https://topreci.com/pesto-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/