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Fresh Cold Caprese Pasta Recipe with Creamy Mozzarella Pearls Easy and Perfect for Summer

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A cool, fresh, and satisfying cold pasta salad featuring creamy mozzarella pearls, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil tossed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for summer meals, picnics, and light dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) short pasta like fusilli, penne, or rotini
  • 8 oz (225 g) creamy mozzarella pearls
  • 2 cups (about 300 g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Taste to check for firmness.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta completely.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Toss the cooled pasta into the dressing, mixing gently to coat every piece.
  5. Fold in 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup torn fresh basil leaves.
  6. Gently fold in 8 oz (225 g) creamy mozzarella pearls, being careful not to crush them.
  7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors marry.
  8. Before serving, give the pasta a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with a few more fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; rinse immediately under cold water to stop cooking and cool. Fold mozzarella pearls gently to keep them intact. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Can be made up to 4 hours ahead and kept chilled. Add extra olive oil before serving if pasta absorbs too much dressing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta, cold pasta salad, mozzarella pearls, summer recipe, fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://bitematrix.com/fresh-cold-caprese-pasta-recipe-with-creamy-mozzarella-pearls-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/