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As the warm summer months approach, the desire for light, refreshing, and vibrant dishes becomes paramount. One such dish that perfectly embodies these qualities is Caprese pasta salad. This delightful salad combines the classic flavors of a traditional Caprese salad—ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil—infused with the heartiness of pasta and drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. The result is a colorful and appetizing dish that not only looks stunning on any table but also tantalizes the taste buds with its harmonious blend of flavors.

Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with a delightful Caprese Pasta Salad drizzled with balsamic glaze. This refreshing dish combines ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all mixed with hearty rotini pasta. Perfect for picnics and casual gatherings, it’s easy to make and adaptable for various dietary preferences. Enjoy the exciting textures and fresh ingredients that will brighten your meals all season long.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz. rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (for added crunch and flavor)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold running water for a few moments to cool it down and halt the cooking process.

    Prepare the Dressing: While the pasta is cooking, take a small mixing bowl and combine the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until they are well emulsified. This dressing will be the flavor foundation of your salad.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, place the cooled, drained pasta. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and roughly chopped basil leaves to the bowl. Drizzle your prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together with a spatula or tongs, ensuring that all ingredients are thoroughly coated in the dressing.

        Add Balsamic Glaze: Transfer the pasta salad to a beautiful serving dish or bowl. For an elegant presentation, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the salad. If you're using toasted pine nuts for added texture, sprinkle them on top as well, enhancing both the flavor and crunch.

          Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor fusion, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to serving. This resting period allows the ingredients to marry and enhances the overall taste.

            Enjoy: Serve the Caprese pasta salad cold or at room temperature. This dish makes for a delightful addition to summer picnics, casual potlucks, or any festive gathering!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 6 servings