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Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 15 reviews

This refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad combines al dente rotini pasta with fresh mozzarella pearls, juicy grape tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or a colorful side dish, this salad is easy to prepare, refreshing to eat, and can be made ahead for convenient serving.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Pasta and Cheese

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 8 ounces mozzarella pearls (or ciliegine)

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
  • ⅓ cup fresh basil, sliced thinly

Dressing

  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried basil, garlic powder, sea salt, and cracked black pepper until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
  3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, mozzarella pearls, halved grape tomatoes, and thinly sliced fresh basil. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and toss everything gently to ensure the salad is evenly coated.
  4. Chill and Serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. Serve cold for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh mozzarella pearls or ciliegine.
  • Make sure to rinse pasta with cold water to prevent it from sticking and keep it cool for the salad.
  • Feel free to add a handful of arugula or baby spinach for extra greens.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Adjust seasoning of the dressing as per your taste preference.

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/