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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Jars

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Jars - featured image
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A fresh, vibrant pasta salad layered in jars perfect for easy, mess-free school lunches that stay crisp and flavorful until mealtime.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces small pasta shapes like mini rotini or orzo
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or cubed
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of small pasta shapes like mini rotini or orzo. Cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Transfer cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl, pour the dressing over it, and toss gently to coat evenly. Let flavors meld for about 10 minutes.
  4. Halve 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes. Cube or drain 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella balls. Rinse and pat dry basil leaves carefully.
  5. Toast 2 tablespoons pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking frequently. Remove immediately to avoid burning (optional).
  6. Assemble jars by spooning about 2 tablespoons of dressed pasta into each pint-sized mason jar.
  7. Add half the mozzarella, then the cherry tomatoes, layering above the pasta but below the basil.
  8. Top with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top if using. Seal jars tightly.
  9. Refrigerate jars for at least 30 minutes before packing in lunchboxes to let flavors meld and keep salad fresh.

Notes

Layering ingredients in the jar is key to prevent sogginess; start with dressing at the bottom, followed by pasta, cheese, tomatoes, and basil on top. Rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to stop cooking and keep firm. Prepare pasta the night before to save time. Avoid overdressing pasta to prevent mushiness. Keep jars chilled until serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, school lunch, pasta salad jars, easy pasta salad, fresh basil, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, healthy lunch, kid-friendly lunch

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-jars-easy-school-lunch-recipes-that-impress/