Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Summer Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A simple, vibrant Caprese pasta salad combining fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and pasta, finished with a sweet balsamic glaze. Perfect for light summer meals and quick gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings as a side, 2-3 servings as a light main 1x
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) small pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne
- 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chiffonade
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and immediately toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil to keep it from clumping. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, or run under cold water briefly to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta cooks and cools, halve 2 cups (300 g) of cherry tomatoes and 8 oz (225 g) mozzarella balls. Tear or chiffonade about 1 cup of fresh basil leaves.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss gently but thoroughly to distribute everything evenly.
- Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the salad. Toss lightly again to coat without breaking the mozzarella or bruising the basil.
- Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. If desired, chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes but bring back to room temperature before eating for best flavor.
Notes
[‘Toss pasta with olive oil immediately after draining to prevent sticking.’, ‘Use fresh, firm tomatoes to avoid watery salad.’, ‘Toss gently to keep mozzarella balls intact and basil fresh.’, ‘Add balsamic glaze gradually to balance flavor without overpowering.’, ‘Assemble just before serving for freshest taste; keep glaze separate if prepping ahead.’, ‘If balsamic glaze is not thick enough, simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until syrupy.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 12
Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, summer salad, balsamic glaze, easy pasta salad, fresh basil, mozzarella salad, quick summer recipe