Strawberry Caprese Pasta is loaded with fresh, cool summer flavors and topped with basil and balsamic.
If anything can brighten up a long list of to-dos, it’s going to be a new strawberry recipe! And this one is so quick, light, & refreshing! The colors alone make me very happy!
I’ve noticed recently that I’ve made a lot of pasta salad recipes for you all. I’m not really sure where this habit came from, but it seems I am addicted to pasta salad!
In March, I shared this Quick Homemade Gnocchi Caprese Salad.
In April, I shared this Pesto Tortellini Salad.
And today I will be sharing with you a new recipe for Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad!
And while I don’t have any more pasta salad recipes planned in the near future, I do have one more new strawberry recipe, my Strawberry Goat Cheese Crostini.
Print
Strawberry Caprese Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian, Omnivore
Description
Sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil combine for a light pasta salad. Perfect for a summer lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (473 ml) Uncooked Pasta
- 1.5 cups (355 ml) Sliced Strawberries
- 8 oz (227 g) Mini Mozzarella
- 0.75 oz (21 g) Fresh Basil
- Balsamic
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.
- Place the drained pasta in a serving bowl.
- Stir in the sliced strawberries and mini mozzarella balls.
- Chill the pasta salad for 1-2 hours.
- Mix in fresh basil and top with balsamic glaze.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries. Overly soft berries will release too much juice.
- To prevent the mozzarella from becoming watery, do not add it to the pasta until just before serving.
- This salad can be made ahead of time; just add the basil and balsamic glaze right before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 20
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 60
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 10
- Cholesterol: 20
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta works best for Strawberry Caprese Pasta?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne work best as they hold onto the dressing and toppings well.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for this recipe, as they provide the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well.
How do I incorporate the balsamic vinegar into the dish?
Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the pasta just before serving, allowing it to complement the fresh strawberries and basil.