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Easy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with Sweet Balsamic Reduction for Summer

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A quick and fresh pasta salad featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a sweet balsamic reduction that brightens up the flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225g) short pasta (like rotini or penne)
  • 1 pint (about 300g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
  • 1/4 cup (6g) fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. While the pasta cooks, pour 1/2 cup (120ml) balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar if desired. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar simmers and reduces by about half, thickening into a syrupy glaze (about 10-12 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Tear fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic if using.
  4. Add the tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and garlic to the cooled pasta. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Pour the balsamic reduction over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to distribute the glaze evenly.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours to let flavors meld. Toss gently before serving if chilled.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it for salad. Reduce balsamic vinegar over medium-low heat to avoid burning. Tear basil leaves by hand to preserve flavor. Toss salad gently to avoid breaking mozzarella. For best texture, add balsamic reduction just before serving. Can be made vegan or gluten-free with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, balsamic reduction, summer salad, easy pasta salad, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, vegetarian, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/easy-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-with-sweet-balsamic-reduction-for-summer/