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Fresh Memorial Day Caprese Pasta Salad

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A fresh, vibrant Caprese pasta salad that’s easy to make ahead and perfect for Memorial Day or any summer gathering. It combines cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a light and refreshing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl or mason jar, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon honey. Whisk or shake until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 8 ounces halved mozzarella balls, 1 cup torn fresh basil leaves, and thinly sliced red onion if using.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Just before serving, give the salad a quick toss and check seasoning. Add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent mushiness and clumping. Add basil last to preserve its bright flavor and prevent bruising. If salad seems dry after chilling, add a splash of olive oil before serving. Dressing can be adjusted to taste by balancing acidity and sweetness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, Memorial Day salad, make-ahead pasta salad, fresh mozzarella salad, cherry tomato salad, basil pasta salad, summer pasta salad

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/fresh-memorial-day-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-make-ahead-ideas/