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Caprese Quinoa Pasta Salad

Caprese Quinoa Pasta Salad

  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Caprese Quinoa Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and wholesome dish combining nutty quinoa pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy plant-based mozzarella. Tossed in a zesty apple cider vinegar dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it ideal as a light meal or a colorful side for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 200g quinoa pasta
  • 150g plant-based mozzarella, bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tbsp natural apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (natural flavoring)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the quinoa pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the natural apple cider vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well emulsified. This tangy dressing will enhance all the flavors in the salad.
  3. Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled quinoa pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, torn fresh basil leaves, and bite-sized pieces of plant-based mozzarella. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat everything evenly without breaking the mozzarella.
  4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. This chilling step improves the overall taste, letting the ingredients soak up the zesty dressing before serving.

Notes

  • Cook pasta perfectly by testing a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overcooking.
  • Use the ripest cherry tomatoes and freshest basil for maximum flavor.
  • Toss the salad gently to keep the plant-based mozzarella intact.
  • Prepare ahead for flavor development but add the mozzarella fresh to prevent sogginess.
  • Adjust salt and pepper seasonings just before serving to keep flavors balanced.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Caprese, quinoa pasta salad, plant-based mozzarella, gluten free, healthy salad, fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, apple cider vinegar dressing

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/caprese-quinoa-pasta-salad/