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Caprese Pasta Salad Fresh Mozzarella Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad Fresh Mozzarella Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad Fresh Mozzarella Recipe is a bright, fresh and easy dish that many people love. This Caprese Pasta Salad Fresh Mozzarella Recipe combines pasta, juicy tomatoes, soft mozzarella and fresh basil in one bowl. It tastes light, creamy and full of summer flavor. This dish works well for lunch, dinner or parties.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Salad / Side Dish
Cuisine Italian-inspired
Servings 6
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 400 grams short pasta such as fusilli or penne
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 200 grams fresh mozzarella balls halved
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 garlic clove finely minced

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until tender but firm. Drain and cool slightly.

Cool the Pasta

  • Rinse pasta briefly with cold water. This stops cooking and prevents sticking.

Prepare the Tomatoes

  • Wash cherry tomatoes well. Cut them into halves and place them in a large bowl.

Prepare the Mozzarella

  • Cut fresh mozzarella balls into halves. Add them gently to the tomatoes.

Chop the Basil

  • Wash basil leaves and pat dry. Chop them gently to keep fresh flavor.

Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic glaze, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.

Combine Ingredients

  • Add cooled pasta to the tomato and mozzarella mixture. Toss gently.

Add the Dressing

  • Pour dressing over the pasta salad. Mix slowly to coat everything evenly.

Add Basil

  • Sprinkle chopped basil over the salad. Toss once more very gently.

Rest the Salad

  • Let the salad rest for ten minutes. This helps flavors blend nicely before serving.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber and texture.
  • Add sliced olives for a salty bite.
  • Use grape tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are unavailable.
  • Add grilled chicken for a filling main dish.
  • Use burrata instead of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
  • Add pine nuts for light crunch.
  • Use lemon juice instead of balsamic for a fresher taste.
Keyword Caprese Pasta Salad Fresh Mozzarella Recipe