Description
This easy and refreshing Strawberry Balsamic Pasta Salad combines sweet strawberries, fresh herbs, and mozzarella with a lightly sweetened balsamic dressing, offering a delightful pasta twist on the classic Caprese salad. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light summer meal.
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 1 pound short pasta (such as fusilli, penne, elbows, etc.)
- 1 pound strawberries, sliced
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls, drained
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ⅓ cup thinly slivered fresh basil
- ⅓ cup thinly slivered fresh mint
Balsamic Dressing
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons golden balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander, then lightly rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, slice the strawberries and red onion. In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, red onion, drained mozzarella balls, slivered basil, and mint. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, honey, golden balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well blended.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- For added crunch, top with roasted pistachios, sliced almonds, or toasted pine nuts.
- Make ahead option: Prep all components separately, refrigerate in airtight containers, and toss to combine within 24 hours.
- Once assembled, consume within 2 days for best freshness, as strawberries soften quickly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
