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Quick Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

A delightful and simple pasta salad combining fresh ingredients, perfect for gatherings or a quick meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Quick Meal, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne) Choose quality dry pasta for the best texture.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Plump cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved Use bocconcini for a unique texture.
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn Essential for true Caprese flavor.
  • 1/4 cup balsamic glaze Drizzle to enhance flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
  • to taste salt and pepper Use fresh ground pepper for best flavor.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then add the 8 oz of pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup of halved mozzarella balls, and 1 cup of torn fresh basil leaves.
  3. Drizzle the salad with 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then toss everything gently to combine all ingredients well.
  5. You can either serve the pasta salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  6. Once ready, scoop the salad into bowls and enjoy.

Notes

This pasta salad is customizable; feel free to swap ingredients based on preference. Serve alongside grilled chicken, a green salad, or garlic bread for a meal.