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Fresh Chilled Caprese Pasta Salad

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A quick and easy chilled pasta salad featuring fresh mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, and basil, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for summer gatherings and a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces gemelli or rotini pasta
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), drained
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of gemelli or rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely. Let it drain well for 5 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, 1 small minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 8 ounces mozzarella pearls, and 1 cup torn fresh basil leaves.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, being careful not to break up the mozzarella pearls.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
  7. Before serving, gently stir the salad and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after chilling. Rinse pasta under cold water and drain thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Tear basil leaves by hand to preserve flavor and color. Gently toss salad to avoid breaking mozzarella pearls. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. If salad seems dry after chilling, drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, chilled pasta salad, summer side dish, fresh mozzarella salad, easy pasta salad, Italian salad, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://crispcraving.com/fresh-chilled-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-summer-side-dish/