Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Why Make This Recipe
Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh flavors and simple ingredients. It’s a perfect meal for warm days, picnics, or potlucks. With the rich taste of basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, this salad not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses your guests. It is quick to prepare, and you can easily customize it to your liking!
How to Make Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves (loosely packed)
- 1/3 cup pine nuts (or sliced almonds)
- 2 small cloves of garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb pasta (orecchiette, rotini, or your favorite gluten-free pasta)
- 1 1/2 lbs cherry tomatoes (sliced or cut in half)
- 10 ounces small mozzarella cheese balls (or a whole log cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Handful of fresh basil leaves (to use as garnish)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain it and place it in a bowl.
- In a food processor, add the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, shredded parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse 4-5 times for a rough chop.
- Turn on the food processor and drizzle the olive oil through the tube while running. Stop to scrape down the sides if needed. Continue until the vinaigrette is creamy.
- To assemble the salad, add the mozzarella cheese and cherry tomatoes to the bowl with pasta. Drizzle the pesto dressing over everything and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with additional parmesan cheese and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve while still warm.
How to Serve Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad can be served warm or at room temperature. It’s great as a side dish or as a main meal. You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein if desired. Serve it in a large bowl for gatherings or divide it into smaller portions for a picnic.
How to Store Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Store any leftover Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing, you may want to add a little more pesto or olive oil before serving again.
Tips to Make Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
- Choose ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Toasting the pine nuts for a few minutes enhances their nutty taste.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute with sunflower seeds or just leave them out.
- For a creamier dressing, blend in more parmesan or a splash of cream.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or spinach. For a different flavor, try using sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of homemade?
Yes, store-bought pesto can save time and still taste great in this salad.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta, which is widely available in stores.
Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.
