This fresh and easy pasta salad combines the fresh flavors of strawberries, mint, and basil with a simply sweetened balsamic dressing for a pasta-fied spin on the classic caprese.
Course Salad
Cuisine Italian
Keyword strawberry balsamic pasta salad
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 8 minutesminutes
Total Time 23 minutesminutes
Servings 12
Calories 322kcal
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
1poundshort pasta, such as fusilli, penne, elbows, etc.
1 pound strawberries, sliced
16ouncesmozzarella balls, drained
½cupthinly sliced red onion
⅓cupthinly slivered fresh basil
⅓cupthinly slivered fresh mint
Balsamic Dressing
⅓cupextra virgin olive oil
3tablespoonshoney
2 tablespoons golden balsamic vinegar
1teaspoonkosher salt
1teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Bring a pot water to boil and season generously with salt. Boil the pasta according to package directions. Drain in a colander. Lightly rinse so the pasta doesn't stick, then cool.
Make the dressing: While the pasta is cooking, slice the strawberries and onions then add to a large bowl with the drained mozzarella balls and herbs. Add the cooled pasta.
Combine: In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, honey, golden balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Drizzle over the pasta and gently toss. Add more salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Notes
For added crunch, top with roasted pistachios, sliced almonds, or toasted pine nuts. Make ahead option: Prep all the components, refrigerate in separate containers, and toss to combine and serve within 24 hours. Once assembled, the pasta salad is best eaten within 2 days or less since strawberries soften quickly.