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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Basil Vinaigrette

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A light and fresh pasta salad featuring creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a bright homemade basil vinaigrette. Perfect for summer occasions and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or cubed fresh mozzarella
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of rotini or penne and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and 1 minced garlic clove. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, and 1 pint halved cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to mix.
  5. Tear 1 cup fresh basil leaves and sprinkle over the salad. Pour the basil vinaigrette over everything and toss gently but thoroughly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Rinse pasta after cooking to stop cooking and prevent sogginess. Use fresh mozzarella for best texture. Tear basil leaves instead of chopping to preserve flavor. Whisk vinaigrette well to emulsify. Toss salad with dressing just before serving to avoid soggy pasta. Best served same day; store leftovers in airtight container for up to 2 days and add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, basil vinaigrette, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, summer salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-basil-vinaigrette/