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Prosciutto Caprese Pasta Salad

Prosciutto Caprese Pasta Salad for a Touch of Elegance - Fresh, Bright, and Effortless

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Short pasta: Fusilli, farfalle, or orecchiette
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes: Halved
  • Fresh mozzarella: Ciliegine (small balls) or diced mozzarella
  • Prosciutto: Thinly sliced
  • Fresh basil: Torn or sliced into ribbons
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Balsamic vinegar
  • Lemon: For juice and optional zest
  • Garlic: 1 small clove, finely grated or minced
  • Honey or sugar: Just a touch to balance acidity
  • Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a mild kick
  • Parmesan: Optional, shaved for serving

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pasta water, then drain and spread on a sheet pan to cool slightly.
  • Whisk the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk 1/3 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional), 1 teaspoon Dijon, 1/2 teaspoon honey, the grated garlic, a pinch of red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of black pepper until glossy and combined.
  • Toss warm pasta with dressing: Add the warm (not hot) pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss well. Use a splash of reserved pasta water if you want a silkier coating. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavor.
  • Prep the add-ins: Halve the tomatoes, drain the mozzarella balls, and slice or tear the prosciutto into bite-size ribbons. Tear the basil just before adding to prevent bruising.
  • Combine gently: Fold in tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Add prosciutto last, folding lightly so it stays in soft ribbons rather than clumps.
  • Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, balsamic, or lemon as needed. If it tastes flat, it likely needs a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon.
  • Finish and serve: Top with shaved Parmesan if you like. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor, or chill for 30–60 minutes if you prefer it cooler.