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Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad

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A bright and refreshing Caprese pasta salad featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls, and basil, tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for quick lunches, especially teacher appreciation meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle
  • 1 ½ cups (about 250 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup (about 150 g) fresh mozzarella pearls, drained
  • ½ cup packed (about 15 g) fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes (check package instructions). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Let it drain completely.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, minced garlic clove, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  4. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add halved cherry tomatoes and gently toss with the dressing so every bite has flavor.
  5. Fold in 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls and ½ cup torn fresh basil leaves gently to keep the mozzarella’s soft texture intact.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning—add extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice if needed.
  7. Portion the salad into airtight containers or lunch boxes. If making ahead, keep refrigerated and add fresh basil just before serving to preserve its vibrant color and flavor.

Notes

Toss pasta with dressing while still slightly warm to soak up flavors, but cool before adding mozzarella to avoid melting. Use fresh basil for best flavor and add it just before serving to keep it vibrant. Rinse pasta after cooking to prevent sticking. Fresh mozzarella pearls keep the salad light and fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, balsamic dressing, easy lunch, teacher appreciation, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://sagestirs.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-lunch-box-idea-for-teacher-appreciation/