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Instructions:
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
- Dress the salad:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine, ensuring that all the ingredients are well-coated.
- Optional:
- Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the top for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion:
This Best Caprese Pasta Salad is the epitome of fresh and simple, yet it’s packed with vibrant flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied. It’s the kind of dish that you can whip up in minutes but will taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. The blend of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic, provides a refreshing taste of summer with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a main or side dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. For an extra touch, serve it with crusty bread and a chilled glass of white wine—delicious perfection in every bite!
Extra Tips:
- For an even more flavorful dish, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the salad for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- If you’re making this dish in advance, wait to add the basil until right before serving to prevent it from wilting.
- You can also swap in different types of pasta depending on what you have on hand—whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too!
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