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To make a flavorful Caprese pasta salad, you need some key items. Here’s what you will need: - 8 oz. fusilli pasta - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze - 1 clove garlic, minced - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) These ingredients work together to create a fresh and tasty dish. Using good quality ingredients makes a big difference. For pasta, choose a brand made with durum wheat for the best texture. Look for ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for sweetness. Fresh mozzarella should be soft and creamy. Always go for extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. A high-quality balsamic glaze adds depth and sweetness to the dish. You can easily swap some items based on what you have. If you can’t find fusilli, use penne or rotini instead. Instead of cherry tomatoes, try grape tomatoes or diced heirloom tomatoes. If you prefer a different cheese, try feta or goat cheese. For a nutty flavor, add pine nuts or walnuts. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can replace basil for a different twist. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe for Caprese Pasta Salad. Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add some salt to the water. This step adds flavor to the pasta. Once the water is boiling, add 8 oz. of fusilli pasta. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want the pasta al dente, so it has a slight bite. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This cools it down and stops the cooking process. In a big mixing bowl, add the cooled fusilli pasta. Next, toss in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls. I love using bocconcini because they are soft and creamy. Then, add 1/2 cup of torn fresh basil leaves. The basil gives a nice fresh taste. Finally, mix in 1 clove of minced garlic. Garlic adds a wonderful zing to the dish. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze. This mix will dress the salad perfectly. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Pour this dressing over your pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together. Make sure all the pasta and veggies are well-coated. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors blend. For the full recipe, check the complete instructions. To make the best Caprese pasta salad, use fresh ingredients. Fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella make a big difference. Always cook the pasta al dente. This keeps it firm and helps it hold up well in the salad. Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together. You can add more flavor to your salad with simple tweaks. Try adding olives or artichokes for a salty kick. You can also mix in roasted red peppers for sweetness. If you want a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes. For a twist, use different types of cheese, like feta or goat cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dish, too. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, like oregano or thyme. Serve your Caprese pasta salad in a large bowl. Garnish it with extra basil leaves for a pop of color. A drizzle of balsamic glaze on top adds a nice finish. Pair this salad with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a crusty baguette or garlic bread. If you have leftovers, enjoy them the next day. The flavors will become even better after sitting overnight. For the full recipe, check out the Caprese Pasta Salad details. {{image_2}} You can boost the nutrition of your Caprese pasta salad easily. Think about adding veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or spinach. Each of these options brings a fresh crunch and extra vitamins. You can also toss in some chickpeas for protein. They add a nice texture and keep the salad filling. If you want a gluten-free version, switch to gluten-free pasta. There are many types available now that taste great. Options like brown rice or quinoa pasta work well. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package. Your Caprese pasta salad will still be tasty and enjoyable. To enhance the flavor, consider adding more ingredients. A handful of olives can give a salty kick. You can also sprinkle in some capers for a zesty touch. For a smoky flavor, try adding grilled veggies. Finally, a dash of lemon juice can brighten up the dish. Each addition creates a unique twist on this classic salad. If you want the full experience, check the Full Recipe for more ideas. Store leftover Caprese pasta salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge. This salad stays fresh for up to three days. If you see any moisture, drain it before serving. The dressing may separate, but this is normal. Just stir it well before eating. I do not recommend freezing this salad. Freezing can change the texture of the pasta and cheese. Fresh basil also loses its flavor when frozen. If you must freeze it, leave out the dressing and fresh ingredients. Store only the pasta and tomatoes in a freezer-safe bag. When you want to enjoy your leftover Caprese pasta salad, avoid using the microwave. Microwaving can make the pasta mushy. Instead, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If it seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or balsamic glaze. Gently toss to mix it back together. This will help revive the flavors and texture. Caprese Pasta Salad lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. The tomatoes may release some juices, but the salad still tastes great. If you want the best flavor, eat it within the first few days. Yes, you can make Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time. It’s a great dish for meal prep. Make it a day before and let the flavors blend. Just remember to store it in the fridge. If you plan to serve it later, keep the dressing separate until just before serving. You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Cubed tofu works well for a vegetarian option. You can also toss in some chickpeas or black beans. These additions make the salad more filling and nutritious. Feel free to mix and match based on your taste! Caprese pasta salad is simple and tasty. We covered the key ingredients, like fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. You learned how to cook the pasta and mix everything well. Tips on enhancing flavors and serving your salad were shared too. Remember, you can make it gluten-free or add more veggies for nutrition. Store leftovers properly and enjoy them later. With these insights, you can create a delicious Caprese pasta salad anytime. Your kitchen is now a great place for this fresh dish. Enjoy your cooking!

- Caprese Pasta Salad

Discover the delightful world of Caprese Pasta Salad with this easy and delicious recipe! Made with fresh fusilli pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it's a perfect dish for any occasion. Drizzle with a homemade balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad serves four and is ideal for meal prep or gatherings. Click to explore the full recipe and impress your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. fusilli pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic glaze

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the fusilli pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to cool down.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.

      Add the torn basil leaves and minced garlic to the bowl.

        In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this dressing over the pasta mixture.

          Gently toss everything together until well combined and the pasta is evenly coated in the dressing.

            Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

              Allow the salad to sit for at least 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | Serves 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in a large salad bowl garnished with extra torn basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for an elegant touch.