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Healthy Caprese Pasta Salad

This Caprese Pasta Salad recipe is quick and easy to make and a lightened up and healthy twist on the classic pot luck favorite. Made with fresh basil, grape tomatoes and vegan mozzarella with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free with grain-free paleo-friendly options. 

Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword caprese pasta salad recipe, gluten free, tomato mozzarella pasta salad
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 286 kcal
Author Kelly

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried gluten-free pasta , use any gluten-free or grain free pasta brand you like, but if you are paleo these from Jovial, or Almond Love for Keto or Cappello's grain-free pasta. If you are looking for a chickpea or lentil based pasta, you can use Banza pasta shells that are made with chickpeas.
  • 1 pint fresh grape tomatoes halved
  • 8 ounces fresh vegan mozzarella cheese , cut into bite-sized cubes; omit if avoiding all cheese (Whole30)
  • 1 cup fresh basil roughly chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup blueberries optional
  • Lunchboxes for meal prep

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

  • 3 garlic cloves finely minced
  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Whisk in the olive oil until combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Add the pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large bowl. Toss in blueberries (optional).
    Caprese Pasta Salad - the perfect side dish to bring to summer potlucks, parties, Memorial Day / Fourth of July grillouts/barbecues. Best of all, it's so easy to make and easy to customize with your favorite toppings and homemade dressing. Perfect for Sunday meal prep and leftovers are delicious for school or work lunchboxes or lunchbowls.
  4. Add the dressing toss evenly to coat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or cover and chill in the fridge.
  5. For meal prep: Divide the pasta into lunch containers. Store in the fridge for up to four days.
    Caprese Pasta Salad - the perfect side dish to bring to summer potlucks, parties, Memorial Day / Fourth of July grillouts/barbecues. Best of all, it's so easy to make and easy to customize with your favorite toppings and homemade dressing. Perfect for Sunday meal prep and leftovers are delicious for school or work lunchboxes or lunchbowls.

Recipe Notes

You can prep everything in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the dressing the day that you plan on serving this.

Nutrition Facts
Healthy Caprese Pasta Salad
Amount Per Serving (1 serving (1/6 recipe))
Calories 286 Calories from Fat 135
% Daily Value*
Fat 15g23%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Carbohydrates 23g8%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 6g7%
Protein 12g24%
* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.