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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Balsamic Glaze

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A quick and easy pasta salad combining tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls, and fragrant basil leaves, finished with a homemade balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle
  • 2 cups (300 g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz (225 g) mozzarella ciliegine (small fresh mozzarella balls), drained
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or whole if small
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: toasted pine nuts

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. While pasta cooks, pour ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon brown sugar into a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and let it reduce for 8-10 minutes until thick and syrupy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Halve 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes and mince 1 small garlic clove. Drain 8 oz (225 g) mozzarella ciliegine and tear about 1 cup of fresh basil leaves.
  4. Add tomatoes, mozzarella, garlic, and basil to the cooled pasta. Drizzle 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil over everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Mix everything together gently so the tomatoes don’t burst and the mozzarella stays intact.
  6. Just before serving, spoon the balsamic glaze over the salad. Toss lightly or leave drizzled on top for presentation.
  7. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Stir balsamic glaze frequently and remove from heat before it becomes too thick. Prepare salad an hour ahead and refrigerate, adding basil and glaze just before serving for best flavor. Optional additions include red pepper flakes or toasted pine nuts. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta; for dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella alternatives.

Nutrition

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

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