Caprese Pasta Salad (Print Version)

Vibrant pasta tossed with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a zesty balsamic dressing for a refreshing meal.

# Ingredient List:

→ Pasta

01 - 10.5 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
02 - 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

→ Vegetables & Herbs

03 - 8.8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 small clove garlic, minced
05 - 1 oz fresh basil leaves, torn

→ Cheese

06 - 7 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and halved

→ Dressing

07 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
09 - 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
10 - ½ tsp sea salt
11 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

# Recipe Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.
02 - In a large salad bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and torn basil leaves.
03 - Incorporate the halved mozzarella balls into the salad mixture.
04 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until fully emulsified.
05 - Add the cooled pasta to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to blend all ingredients evenly.
06 - Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It comes together faster than ordering takeout and tastes twice as good the next day.
  • The combination of creamy mozzarella and sweet tomatoes feels indulgent but keeps you light on your feet.
  • You can toss it together in the morning and let it chill while you do literally anything else.
  • Every single person who tries it asks for the recipe, which never gets old.
02 -
  • Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining or it will clump together into one giant sticky mess.
  • Don't add the dressing until the pasta is completely cool, otherwise the oil separates and pools at the bottom of the bowl.
  • If you're making this ahead, hold back half the basil and add it fresh right before serving so it stays bright green and fragrant.
03 -
  • Use the pasta water to thin out the dressing if it gets too thick after chilling, it adds a silky texture and a hint of saltiness.
  • Let the tomatoes and garlic sit together for a few minutes before adding anything else, they'll macerate slightly and create a flavorful base that coats everything better.
  • Always taste before serving and don't be shy with the salt, cold dishes need more seasoning than you think.
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