Description
This vibrant Caprese Pastina Salad combines tender pastina pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and flavorful walnut pesto. Garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this easy-to-prepare salad is perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side dish, ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup pastina
- 1 pint halved cherry or grape tomatoes
- 4 ounces mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
- 1/2 cup walnut pesto or store-bought pesto
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Drizzle of balsamic glaze, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pastina: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pastina and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and transfer to a bowl. Let it cool to room temperature. To speed cooling, rinse the pasta under cold water in a strainer before adding it to the bowl.
- Mix in Pesto and Combine Ingredients: Once the pastina has cooled, stir in the walnut pesto until evenly coated. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls, ensuring all ingredients are mixed without breaking the cheese.
- Season and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed, adding salt or pepper if desired to enhance flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one hour to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For quicker cooling, rinse cooked pastina under cold water right after draining.
- Use walnut pesto for a nutty flavor or substitute with your favorite store-bought pesto.
- The salad can be refrigerated for up to 1 hour before serving to enhance the melding of flavors.
- For a crisp texture, add the basil garnish just before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
