Dive into a delightful culinary experience with our Avocado Caprese Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish combines the creamy richness of ripe avocados with the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes and mozzarella, all tossed together in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick lunch or a stunning side dish at your next gathering, this Italian-inspired salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Rinse the 1 cup of cherry tomatoes under cold water, then halve each tomato and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, take the 2 ripe avocados and slice them in half. Remove the pit and scoop the flesh out into a cutting board. Dice the avocado into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the cherry tomatoes.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Allow the pasta to drain thoroughly, then add it to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes and avocados.
- Add 1 cup of mozzarella balls to the bowl. If using larger mozzarella balls, consider halving or quartering them for easier eating.
- Chop 1/4 cup of fresh basil and sprinkle it over the pasta salad mixture. Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp of balsamic vinegar and 2 tbsp of olive oil until well combined. This will be your dressing for the pasta salad.
- Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the balsamic vinegar will add some acidity.
- Once everything is well mixed, let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the Avocado Caprese Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature.
- Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Italian-inspired dish, perfect for a light lunch or a side for dinner!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente for the best texture. This will help it hold up against the other ingredients and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the ripest avocados and the freshest basil you can find. The quality of these ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dish.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other ingredients like olives, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken for added protein. This salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste!
- Dress It Up: If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the balsamic vinaigrette. This adds a nice tang and creaminess to the salad.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the avocados may brown over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 35mg
