Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad

This Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant, sweet, and savory twist on the classic Caprese salad, perfect for summer. With juicy strawberries, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and tender rotini pasta, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze and olive oil, this salad is an instant crowd-pleaser for picnics, BBQs, or light meals. Quick to whip up and full of fresh, colorful ingredients, it’s the kind of dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The sweetness of strawberries paired with the rich mozzarella and fragrant basil creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Add the balsamic glaze for a tangy finish, and you’ve got a salad that’s easy to make and packed with bright, fresh flavors. It’s light but satisfying, and perfect for those warm summer days when you want something refreshing but filling.

Ingredients

• 1 pound rotini pasta

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 8 ounces mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade or torn

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually about 10 minutes for al dente).

• Drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.

2. Prep the Ingredients

• While the pasta is cooling, slice the strawberries and halve the mozzarella balls if needed.

• Chiffonade (or tear) the basil leaves into thin strips.

3. Toss It All Together

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, strawberries, mozzarella, and basil.

• Drizzle the olive oil over the top, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss everything gently to coat evenly.

4. Finish with Balsamic Glaze

• Transfer the salad to a serving platter and drizzle with the balsamic glaze just before serving. This gives it that perfect tangy-sweet finish.

Notes

• Pat the strawberries dry before mixing to prevent extra moisture from watering down the salad.

• Chill the pasta completely before adding the fruit and cheese to get the best texture.

• For the freshest presentation, add the balsamic glaze just before serving.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 380mg

• Fat: 14g

  • Saturated Fat: 6g

  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Protein: 11g

• Cholesterol: 25mg

Variations

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crispy bacon can turn this salad into a heartier meal.

• Fruit Swaps: Try swapping strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for different flavors.

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mozzarella or any vegan cheese of your choice.

• Extra Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or even slivered almonds for an added crunch.

• Greens: Throw in some arugula or spinach for an extra dose of greens.

Conclusion

This Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, light, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side at a summer BBQ or as a quick lunch, it’s sure to impress. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil with a tangy balsamic glaze makes this a perfect dish for warm weather. Light, refreshing, and absolutely delicious—what more could you ask for?

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