Description
A refreshing and vibrant Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad that combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, perfect for summer meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces farfalle pasta
- 1 bouillon cube (or chicken broth)
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes
- 1 shallot
- 1 cup fresh basil
- 8 ounces mini mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and flavor it with a bouillon cube (or chicken broth). Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package directions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta and remember, do not rinse!
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, minced shallot, chopped basil, and mini mozzarella balls. Gently mix to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Dress the Salad: Pour in the pesto and balsamic vinegar, then sprinkle in the kosher salt. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and colorful.
- Serve: This delicious Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad can be served chilled or at room temperature—perfect for those sunny days!
Notes
- Don't Rinse: Skipping the rinse after draining the pasta helps the dressing cling better.
- Choose Fresh: Always use fresh basil for an aromatic finish.
- Pasta Timing: Cook pasta just until al dente, as it’ll continue to soften when mixed with other ingredients.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal prep option, consider grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your salad; you may want to add more salt or balsamic vinegar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook, Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 300 milligrams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 8 grams
- Cholesterol: 10 milligrams