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Caprese Pasta Salad

This Caprese Pasta Salad brings together all the beloved flavors of a classic caprese in one satisfying bowl. Fresh mozzarella pearls, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil create a symphony of Italian flavors that both kids and adults absolutely adore.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed fresh mozzarella)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. The pasta should have a slight bite to it since it will continue to absorb flavors as it sits. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process immediately.
  2. While the pasta cooks, halve your cherry tomatoes and set them aside in a large mixing bowl. The juices that naturally release will become part of your delicious dressing. Chop your fresh basil into ribbons by stacking the leaves and slicing them thinly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. The garlic will mellow as it marinates, creating a perfectly balanced flavor that won't overpower the delicate mozzarella.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with tomatoes. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently. Add the mozzarella pearls and fresh basil, folding them in carefully to avoid breaking the cheese. Let the caprese pasta salad rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow all those beautiful flavors to meld together.

Notes

Perfect for meal prep - make a big batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week. Store leftover pasta salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve overnight! This dish is best served at room temperature, so let it sit out for 15 minutes before serving leftovers. Don't add the mozzarella while the pasta is still warm, as it will melt and lose its delightful texture. Let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow all flavors to meld together.