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The Ultimate Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

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Make this bright, fresh Caprese pasta salad quickly. It uses simple ingredients and is perfect for potlucks, weeknight meals, or summer gatherings. This Italian-inspired dish comes together fast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound rotini or bowtie pasta
  • 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 16 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (bocconcini), drained
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
  2. While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil.
  4. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For a pesto variation, substitute half of the olive oil in the dressing with prepared basil pesto.
  • If you prefer a creamy version, mix in 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the vinaigrette ingredients.
  • You can use cheese tortellini instead of dry pasta for a heartier salad. If using tortellini, cook according to package directions and cool completely.
  • Add grilled chicken breast pieces to make this a complete main dish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-quick/