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Easy No-Heat Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe for Fresh Summer Lunches

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A fresh, no-cook pasta salad combining cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil tossed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, perfect for a light summer lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces small pasta (mini shells, orzo, or elbow macaroni)
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), drained and patted dry
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for tossing mozzarella pearls)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4-6 quarts). Add 8 ounces of small pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 7-9 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Shake off excess water well.
  3. Drain 1 cup of mozzarella pearls and gently toss them with 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a small bowl to keep them from sticking together.
  4. Halve about 2 cups of cherry or grape tomatoes. Quarter if tomatoes are large.
  5. Gently tear 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves.
  6. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly until evenly coated.
  8. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Optionally add a splash of balsamic or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  9. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors marry.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Toss mozzarella pearls with olive oil to keep them silky and prevent sticking. Use fresh basil for best flavor. Salad tastes better if made ahead and chilled for about an hour. Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with tofu or plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, no-cook pasta salad, summer lunch, easy pasta salad, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic vinegar

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/easy-no-heat-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-for-fresh-summer-lunches/