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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with Easy Zesty Herb Dressing

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad - featured image
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A light and refreshing pasta salad combining fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a zesty herb dressing. Perfect for summer potlucks, quick lunches, or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) short pasta like rotini or penne, cooked al dente
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for dressing)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water. Toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside to cool for 10 minutes.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove. Stir in chopped parsley and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.
  4. Final touch and serve: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness. Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and cool noodles quickly. Toss pasta with olive oil immediately after draining to prevent clumping. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. Let salad rest 10-15 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before mixing. Add fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, zesty herb dressing, summer salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad

Find it online: https://vexifood.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-with-easy-zesty-herb-dressing/