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Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

strawberry caprese pasta salad - featured image
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Juicy strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil are tossed with pasta and drizzled in a sweet-tart balsamic glaze for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing summer side. This easy salad is quick to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and perfect for BBQs, picnics, or a light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz short pasta (fusilli, farfalle, or rotini; whole wheat or gluten-free if desired)
  • 1 1/2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or 1 cup diced mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
  • 3–4 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, or maple syrup for vegan)
  • Salt, to taste (start with 1/2 tsp)
  • Black pepper, to taste (start with 1/4 tsp)

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a big pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain well and rinse under cool water.
  2. While pasta cooks, hull and slice strawberries, halve cherry tomatoes, and tear or slice basil. Drain mozzarella pearls and pat dry.
  3. If making homemade balsamic glaze: Simmer 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar with 1 tbsp honey (or sugar) in a small saucepan over medium heat until reduced by half and syrupy (8–10 minutes). Cool slightly.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss cooled pasta with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add strawberries, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Gently toss to combine.
  5. Drizzle balsamic glaze (whisked with honey if desired) over the salad. Toss lightly to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. For best flavor, cover and chill for 15–30 minutes before serving, or serve immediately.
  7. Transfer to a platter or bowl. Garnish with extra basil and a swirl of balsamic glaze.

Notes

For best results, use ripe, sweet strawberries and fresh basil. Pat mozzarella dry to prevent a watery salad. Chill briefly before serving for best flavor. For vegan, use dairy-free mozzarella and maple syrup. Gluten-free pasta works well. Add-ins like toasted pine nuts or arugula are delicious. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry caprese pasta salad, summer salad, balsamic glaze, vegetarian pasta salad, picnic side, easy pasta salad, mozzarella, basil, strawberry recipes

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/strawberry-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-summer-side-with-balsamic-glaze/