Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Even with fall upon us, I wanted to share this caprese pasta salad recipe.  I made this for a BBQ gathering at my friend’s house over the summer.  This salad was a great accompaniment to the amazing spread of grilled chicken, steak tips and veggies for dinner.  It is a simple, yet elegant salad that is full of fresh flavors. 

The combination of tomato, mozzarella and basil is a classic combination.  So adding in some pasta, one of my favorite carbs, was a no brainer.  The pasta absorbs the sweet balsamic dressing while the salty mozzarella seasons the juicy tomato.  Also, make sure you use fresh basil in this dish to pull all of the flavors together. 

Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Serves 8 -10 (as a side dish)

1 lb. pasta (any shape, I used wheat)

5 ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced

15 large basil leaves, chopped

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed

Salt

Pepper

3-4 tablespoons balsamic dressing

In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil.  Once at a rolling boil, add in pasta and cook for 7-9 minutes, or until al dente.  Strain the pasta and set aside to cool down to room temperature. {If you are in a rush, you can run the pasta under cold water to help the cooling process}

While the pasta is cooking, in a small bowl mix the tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, salt and pepper to taste. 

In a large serving bowl, add the pasta, tomatoes, basil and mozzarella.  Toss together with the balsamic dressing.  The dressing amount is completely up to you and your preference.  If this salad is made in advance, have additional dressing on hand as the pasta will absorb the dressing over time.