Best 3 Caprese Macaroni Salad Recipes

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Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic Italian flavors and comforting macaroni salad with our Caprese Macaroni Salad recipes. Inspired by the iconic Caprese salad, this refreshing dish combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, aromatic basil, and tender macaroni in a symphony of flavors. Let's delve into three variations of this versatile salad, each offering a unique twist to tantalize your taste buds.

1. **Classic Caprese Macaroni Salad**:
Experience the timeless combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, sweet basil, and al dente macaroni. Dressed in a simple vinaigrette dressing, this classic recipe is a celebration of simplicity and freshness.

2. **Roasted Red Pepper and Pesto Caprese Macaroni Salad**:
Elevate your Caprese salad with the vibrant flavors of roasted red peppers and a luscious basil pesto dressing. The smoky sweetness of the peppers pairs perfectly with the tangy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the nutty flavor of the pesto.

3. **Caprese Macaroni Salad with Grilled Shrimp**:
Add a protein-packed twist to your salad with succulent grilled shrimp. Marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, the shrimp adds a delightful savory element to the classic Caprese combination.

Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, our Caprese Macaroni Salad recipes have got you covered. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and visually stunning dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

CAPRESE SALAD



Caprese Salad image

For something fresh and Italian, make Rachael Ray's Caprese Salad recipe from 30 Minute Meals on Food Network; it's filled with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil.

Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network

Categories     appetizer

Time 10m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 5

3 vine-ripe tomatoes, 1/4-inch thick slices
1 pound fresh mozzarella, 1/4-inch thick slices
20 to 30 leaves (about 1 bunch) fresh basil
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Coarse salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Layer alternating slices of tomatoes and mozzarella, adding a basil leaf between each, on a large, shallow platter. Drizzle the salad with extra-virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

CAPRESE PASTA SALAD



Caprese Pasta Salad image

If there's one pasta salad you'll be making on repeat all summer long, it's this caprese pasta salad. It's fast, it's simple, and it's so frigging good.

Provided by Heidi

Categories     Salad

Time 25m

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 pound short pasta (, such as fusilli, orrechiette, penne)
16 ounces mozzarella balls (, ciligiine or pearls)
3 cups cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup slivered fresh basil
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 garlic clove (, pressed or minced)

Steps:

  • Bring a pot of water to a boil and season generously with kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook just until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse lightly with cold water. Set aside to cool.
  • While the pasta is cooking, drain the mozzarella balls then cut in half. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and add to a mixing bowl with the mozzarella balls. Add the cooled pasta and slivered basil.
  • In a small bowl or mason jar with a lid, add the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, garlic, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well then drizzle over the pasta. Toss to coat and taste for seasoning. The salad is best after about 30 minutes and can be refrigerated for 3 days.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 359 kcal, Carbohydrate 37 g, Protein 15 g, Fat 18 g, SaturatedFat 4 g, Cholesterol 16 mg, Sodium 274 mg, Fiber 2 g, Sugar 3 g, ServingSize 1 serving

CAPRESE PASTA SALAD



Caprese Pasta Salad image

This easy Caprese pasta salad is always a favorite, especially when summer tomatoes are at their peak. It comes together quickly, but if you can make it ahead of time, the flavors seem to get better after it's chilled for a few hours. -Debby Harden, Lansing, Michigan

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch     Side Dishes

Time 30m

Yield 17 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 package (16 ounces) penne pasta
3 large heirloom tomatoes (about 2 pounds), seeded and chopped
3/4 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1/2 cup loosely packed basil leaves, chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon sugar
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse in cold water. Transfer to a large bowl. Gently stir in the tomatoes, cheese and basil., In a small bowl, whisk the remaining ingredients. Drizzle over salad and toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 204 calories, Fat 9g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 16mg cholesterol, Sodium 137mg sodium, Carbohydrate 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 8g protein.

Tips:

  • To save time, use high-quality store-bought pesto sauce. However, if you have the time and ingredients, homemade pesto is always a better option.
  • To make the salad more colorful, use a variety of fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, and parsley.
  • For a vegetarian version of the salad, omit the prosciutto or pancetta.
  • For a vegan version of the salad, omit the prosciutto, pancetta, and Parmesan cheese. You can also use vegan pesto sauce.
  • Caprese macaroni salad is best served chilled. Make it ahead of time and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

Conclusion:

Caprese macaroni salad is a delicious and refreshing summer salad that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. It is made with cooked macaroni, fresh mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, basil, and pesto sauce. The salad is light and flavorful, and it is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

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