My favorite part of any cook-out or picnic is the pasta salad. That refreshing bite amongst all of the BBQ to make you feel “light” after {maybe} a day full of drinking and being in the sun. You know what cook-out I’m talking about. THE FOURTH OF JULY! The biggest party of the year, great food, great drinks, great friends, and ending with a great fireworks show.

Anytime you go to a cook-out or a pot luck, the first question you ask is “what can I bring?” well, bring this! Since this is a mayo-less based pasta salad, it will hold up to the heat of summer and not need to be kept in the refrigerator all day.

Caprese happens to be one of my favorite appetizers and flavors. Mozzarella? YES! Fresh Tomatoes? YES! Pesto? Um, YES! Balsamic? YES! YES! Why not put all of that into a perfect Summer side dish? It also immediately became Birdbelly Husband’s favorite, he audibly “yums”, and says “This this the best” with each mouth-full bite.

So if you are planning a Fourth of July Party, or any Summer cook-out, raise your hand and say ” I have the Pasta Salad covered” because every meal needs this super simple Caprese Pasta Salad!

The Process:

First, cook pasta according to package directions. You can use whatever short pasta you would like, but Rotini or Bow Tie will be best. The groves of these two pastas will hold the dressing better than say a Penne would. Rinse and set aside.

Next in a large bowl, combine Pesto, Olive Oil, Italian Dressing, Balsamic, Salt and Pepper. Whisk together.

Add the pasta, and mozzarella to the bowl. Then slice the tomatoes in half, and add them as well. Mix together.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours prior to serving. You can easily make this ahead of time, the morning of or night before. Just stir prior to serving.

Enjoy!

Recipe: