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Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

A vibrant and easy-to-make pasta salad featuring creamy bocconcini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto, perfect for family gatherings or picnics.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base
  • 1 lb uncooked bow-tie pasta These charming pasta shapes will carry the flavors, turning every bite into a delicious experience.
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil This rich, fruity oil adds a velvety texture and depth to the dish.
Dressings and Sauces
  • ¾ c basil pesto The star of this salad, provides an aromatic and herbaceous flavor.
  • ¼ c Italian dressing Brings a tangy freshness to the pasta.
Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 ½ to 2 c baby spinach, stemmed Adds a crisp bite and vibrant green color.
  • 1 pt cherry tomatoes, sliced Small, juicy bursts of flavor.
  • 8 oz bocconcini, drained and halved Brings a delightful texture and richness.
Seasonings
  • Salt Essential seasoning to enhance flavors.
  • Black pepper Essential seasoning to enhance flavors.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the uncooked bow-tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
Cooling the Pasta
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and run it under cold water to halt the cooking process.
Preparing the Base
  1. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large serving bowl.
  2. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and stir gently to coat.
  3. Let it cool completely at room temperature.
Mixing the Salad
  1. Stir in the basil pesto and Italian dressing, mixing until evenly coated.
  2. Add the baby spinach, sliced cherry tomatoes, and halved bocconcini balls, and gently combine.
Seasoning and Chilling
  1. Taste the pasta salad and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Drizzle with additional olive oil if the salad appears dry before serving.

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld beautifully; just toss again before serving. For variations, consider adding roasted peppers, olives, or arugula.