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Creating a perfect Caprese pasta salad starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. Here’s a breakdown of the essential elements that will make your salad stand out.

Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy with our Caprese Pasta Salad Extravaganza! This stunning dish combines al dente fusilli or rotini pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a tangy dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner, this refreshing salad is easy to customize with seasonal ingredients. Explore our step-by-step guide to elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with this flavorful creation.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (approximately 2 cups) fusilli or rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered

8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), quartered

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup balsamic glaze, for drizzling

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fusilli or rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Allow it to drain thoroughly and set aside.

    Prep the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooling, prepare the other components. Quarter the cherry tomatoes, and quarter the mozzarella balls. Roughly tear the basil leaves into bite-sized pieces, and thinly slice the red onion. Add all prepared ingredients into a large mixing bowl.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes (if you desire some heat). Whisk these together until the dressing is well-emulsified and smooth.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl containing the tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and red onion. Pour the homemade dressing over the pasta salad and, using gentle lifting and folding motions, toss the mixture until everything is evenly coated.

          Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Serve: When ready to serve, remove the salad from the fridge and give it another gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze for a glossy finish and a hint of sweetness.

              Garnish (Optional): For an elevated presentation, top with additional fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese just before serving, adding an extra layer of flavor.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  Enjoy your flavorful and visually appealing Caprese Pasta Salad Extravaganza!