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Fresh Cold Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with Basil and Mozzarella

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A fresh, easy, and crowd-pleasing summer pasta salad combining al dente pasta with creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect chilled for picnics, potlucks, or light dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces small pasta shapes (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), torn or halved
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and roughly torn
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt for pasta water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt for salad
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (1 teaspoon salt in at least 4 quarts water) to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking. Cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking and cool it.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, torn mozzarella, and basil leaves.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
  7. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  8. Before serving, toss the salad again and adjust seasoning with extra black pepper or olive oil if desired.

Notes

Salt pasta water well to enhance flavor. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and keep pasta firm. Use fresh mozzarella balls for best texture. Toss gently to avoid breaking basil and cheese. Add basil just before serving to keep it bright. Use good quality aged balsamic vinegar for best flavor. Optional: add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to dressing for sweetness. For vegan or gluten-free options, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, summer pasta salad, cold pasta salad, basil mozzarella salad, easy summer recipe, fresh pasta salad

Find it online: https://novanosh.com/fresh-cold-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-with-basil-and-mozzarella-easy-perfect-summer-dish/