Dive into a refreshing twist on a classic Italian favorite with our Pesto Caprese Macaroni Salad! This vibrant dish combines the creamy goodness of mozzarella, the burst of juicy cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic flavor of basil pesto, all tossed with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Ready in just 25 minutes, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your pasta game and discover why this salad will become your new go-to dish!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Rinse and halve the 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and set aside. Drain the 1 cup of mozzarella balls and set them aside as well.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
- Add the 1/2 cup of basil pesto to the bowl and gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the pesto.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the pesto caprese macaroni salad to a serving dish or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy your delicious Pesto Caprese Macaroni Salad!
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your elbow macaroni is cooked al dente for the perfect texture. This will help the pasta hold up against the other ingredients and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Chill for Flavor: For the best taste, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use the freshest cherry tomatoes and basil you can find. Their vibrant flavors will elevate your salad and make it even more delicious.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like grilled chicken, olives, or arugula for a personalized touch. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves on top not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aroma and flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
