Go Back
+ servings
Peach Caprese Pasta Salad

Peach Caprese Pasta Salad: A Summer Flavor Sensation

This Peach Caprese Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines sweet peaches, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar substitute with red wine vinegar for a different flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard yellow mustard works but will alter the taste
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar use maple syrup for a vegan alternative
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Italian seasoning is a good substitute
  • ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil any high-quality vegetable oil can be used in a pinch
Salad
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne, cavatappi, spiral, etc.) any short pasta shape works best
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella choose pearl or cubed varieties; substitute with feta for a tangy twist
  • 2 pieces peaches diced into cubes; nectarines can be a delightful alternative
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved for perfect bites; substitute with grape tomatoes if preferred
  • 2 cups firmly-packed arugula spinach can be a milder substitute
  • ½ cup fresh basil mint can be a lovely substitute
  • to taste salt and pepper essential for seasoning

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • pot
  • Whisk
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and dried oregano until combined. While whisking, slowly drizzle in extra-virgin olive oil to create a smooth, emulsified dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
  2. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add short pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold running water to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, fresh mozzarella, diced peaches, and halved cherry tomatoes. Gently add arugula and freshly chopped basil. Pour the balsamic dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Toss the salad thoroughly to mix and coat ingredients. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and serve in a large bowl or individual plates, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 9gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use the ripest peaches and freshest mozzarella for the best flavor. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!