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Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

A vibrant and refreshing Italian-inspired pasta salad featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and aromatic basil, finished with a sweet balsamic glaze.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 2 cups short pasta fusilli or penne
  • 2 tbsp olive oil divided
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls drained
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves torn
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. While pasta cooks, toss cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
  3. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
  4. Combine hot pasta with the tomato mixture in a large serving bowl and toss well.
  5. Add mozzarella pearls to the hot pasta and fold gently to allow slight melting.
  6. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
  7. Let the salad rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  8. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and fold in the torn basil leaves.
  9. Season to taste with extra salt and pepper, garnish with remaining basil and red pepper flakes, then serve.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add fresh basil just before serving to ensure the best color and flavor.