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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad - featured image
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A bright and refreshing pasta salad featuring al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a homemade balsamic glaze for a perfect summer meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces short pasta like rotini or penne
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, torn or cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the balsamic glaze:
  • 1 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, pour 1 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar if desired. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pieces, and torn basil leaves.
  4. Drizzle 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss gently to combine.
  5. Just before serving, spoon the balsamic glaze over the salad in a decorative pattern without fully mixing it in.
  6. Serve immediately or after a brief rest to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Rinsing pasta under cold water stops cooking and prevents mushiness. Make balsamic glaze ahead and store in fridge up to a week. Watch glaze closely to avoid burning. If glaze hardens, warm gently to soften. Use gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-balsamic-glaze-twist/