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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy 5-Ingredient Summer Side Dish

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A quick and easy summer pasta salad combining fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect as a refreshing side or light meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) small pasta shapes like bowtie or rotini
  • 2 cups (about 300 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella balls or torn fresh mozzarella
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
  • 2–3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually around 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain fully.
  2. While pasta cooks, halve 2 cups (about 300 grams) of cherry tomatoes. If using heirloom tomatoes, slice them thinly instead.
  3. Tear 8 ounces (225 grams) of fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces or use small mozzarella balls. Pat dry gently if very wet.
  4. Tear about 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves by hand to preserve flavor and aroma.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the top, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently but thoroughly to mix all ingredients without breaking tomatoes or cheese.
  6. Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving.
  7. Refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature about 10 minutes before eating.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is key. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping. Tear basil by hand to preserve flavor. Drizzle balsamic glaze just before serving to avoid sogginess. Toss gently to avoid breaking tomatoes or cheese. For dairy-free, substitute mozzarella with marinated tofu cubes.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://recipebelle.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-5-ingredient-summer-side-dish/