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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Balsamic Glaze

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A quick and easy pasta salad combining fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a sweet balsamic glaze for a fresh, tangy, and indulgent dish perfect for gatherings or a light meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle
  • 2 cups (about 300 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella, torn or cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  3. While pasta cooks, halve 2 cups (approx. 300 grams) of cherry tomatoes and tear 8 ounces (225 grams) of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces. Tear or chop 1 cup of fresh basil leaves and mince 1 garlic clove if using.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  5. Add the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to combine. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  6. Just before serving, drizzle 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the salad. Toss lightly or serve on top for presentation.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or olive oil if needed. Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes if possible to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Reserve pasta water to adjust salad moisture. Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking and keep basil fresh. Add balsamic glaze last to avoid sogginess. Use short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or farfalle for best sauce hold. Salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers up to 2 days, keeping balsamic glaze separate.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, pasta salad, balsamic glaze, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, easy recipe, summer salad, vegetarian

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-balsamic-glaze/