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Bowl of Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad with tomatoes and mozzarella

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

A fresh and flavorful Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad that combines pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil pesto for a perfect summer meal — ideal for picnics, barbecues, or easy lunches.
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Préparation 10 minutes
Cuisson 10 minutes
Temps total 20 minutes
Portions: 4 bowls
Plat: Main dish, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Préparation Notes

Ingrédients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta bowtie or fusilli
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls mini or halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • 1/2 cup pesto homemade or store-bought
  • salt and pepper to taste

Équipement

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden Spoon

Préparation
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes).
  2. Drain the pasta and allow it to cool slightly to prevent melting the cheese.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
  4. Add pesto and toss gently until the ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Add chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill before serving.

Notes et conservation

For a twist, add grilled chicken, pine nuts, or a squeeze of lemon juice. Use gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese if desired. Best served cold and can be made ahead for meal prep.