Description
This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of al dente pasta, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich, tangy dressing. The combination of creamy textures and vibrant flavors creates a refreshing dish that dances on the palate, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- Pasta: 8 ounces of rotini or fusilli, cooked al dente
- Cheese: 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- Tomatoes: 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- Basil: 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Dressing:
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and torn basil leaves.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 450 milligrams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
- Cholesterol: 20 milligrams
Keywords: Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad, pasta salad, Caprese salad, Italian salad, summer salad, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, creamy dressing, easy pasta recipes, vegetarian recipes, cold pasta salad, picnic food