Description
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Combining the classic flavors of an Italian Caprese with hearty rigatoni, this salad features juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish for barbecues, or a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, this recipe is quick to prepare and easy to customize. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this colorful, satisfying salad that embodies the spirit of Italian cuisine!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- 1.5 – 2 cups diced heirloom tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup chiffonaded basil
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, dried parsley, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Set aside.
- Bring salted water to boil in a large pot; cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the dressing until well coated.
- Add diced heirloom tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chiffonaded basil; gently stir to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (230g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg