Italian Caprese Pasta Salad
This summery pasta salad is a tasty way to enjoy a warm and relaxing evening (it’s great at a picnic or a potluck!). It is also a great make-ahead lunch. Prepare a big batch on the weekend and either distribute into single servings or put it into a bento box compartment or thermos every morning.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. farfalle pasta use wheat/gluten-free, if needed
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes halved
- 1 red onion finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 10 - 12 oz. marinated artichoke hearts drained and coarsely chopped
- 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese diced (1 1/2 cups)
- 3/4 cup fresh basil thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced, about 1/2 tsp.
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions in salted water until it is al dente, then drain and rinse it in cold water.
- Meanwhile, in a large serving bowl, combine the tomatoes, onions, artichokes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- In a large measuring cup, whisk together the oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and dried basil. Add the pasta to the serving bowl, pour the dressing over everything and toss to coat.
- Refrigerate it for at least 1 and up to 24 hours before serving.
Notes
Do Ahead or Delegate: Cook the pasta and store tossed with a little oil to prevent sticking, halve the tomatoes, dice the onion, drain and chop the artichoke hearts, dice the cheese and refrigerate, peel the garlic, combine the spices, prepare the dressing, or fully prepare and refrigerate the salad.
Flavor Booster: Add 4 oz. of diced salami and/or 1/2 cup of sliced olives.
Tip: Fresh mozzarella is a perfect addition to this dish. While shredded mozzarella is commonly used in Italian-style dishes, fresh mozzarella has a creamier texture and is the perfect addition to this dish.
Like this recipe? Check out The Scramble's family-friendly meal plans to see just how simple getting dinner on the table can be!
Nutrition
Calories: 419kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 22mgSodium: 441mgPotassium: 336mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1161IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 186mgIron: 2mg
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