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Introduction
Get ready to elevate your summer potlucks, weeknight dinners, and casual gatherings with a delightful twist on a beloved classic! Our Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad takes the fresh, vibrant flavors of a traditional Caprese salad—juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil—and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying pasta dish bathed in a luscious, creamy dressing. This recipe is a celebration of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary.
Caprese salad, hailing from the stunning island of Capri in Italy, is renowned for its elegant simplicity and patriotic colors. We’ve taken that inspiration and given it a comforting, pasta-salad makeover that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly versatile. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta mingling with sweet cherry tomatoes, tender pearls of fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all coated in a rich, tangy dressing. It’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
What makes this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad truly special is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The al dente pasta provides a satisfying chew, while the burst of sweet tomatoes, the creamy melt of mozzarella, and the herbaceous kick of fresh basil create a symphony for your taste buds. The creamy dressing ties everything together, adding a luxurious mouthfeel and a hint of tang that brightens every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it chills, making your party prep a breeze!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate values):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
Ingredients
- 1 pound rotini pasta (or other short pasta like penne or cavatappi)
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and halved if large
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade), plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for tossing pasta
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste