Spooky Halloween Caprese Pasta Salad for Festive Flavor Fun

This Halloween Caprese Pasta Salad combines vibrant colors and fresh ingredients for a festive and delicious dish.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Chilling Time 15

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Salad

1 lb black penne adds a spooky twist and delightful texture
1 cup dark red cherry tomatoes halved and sweet
8 ounces mozzarella pearls creamy bites
¼ cup fresh basil roughly chopped
1 cup purple, orange, and white carrots thinly sliced

For the Balsamic Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar infuses tangy depth
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil adds richness
¼ teaspoon mustard lends a subtle kick
coarse salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

large pot
colander
small bowl
large salad bowl
Whisk

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes), drain and rinse under cold water.
Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and mustard in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large salad bowl, toss chilled black penne with the vinaigrette, ensuring all pasta is coated. Add cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and carrots.
Fold in fresh basil gently without damaging the tomatoes or mozzarella.
Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Garnish with extra basil if desired.
Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

To maintain freshness, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing to preserve texture.

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