Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

As the sun shines brighter and the temperatures rise, pasta salads emerge as a quintessential dish for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and refreshing qualities make them a favorite among food enthusiasts. Among the myriad of pasta salad options, the Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad stands out as a vibrant and delicious choice. This dish not only captures the essence of summer with its bright colors and flavors but also offers a satisfying meal that balances creamy richness with fresh ingredients.

Looking for a refreshing summer dish that combines ease and deliciousness? Try this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad! Bursting with vibrant colors and classic Caprese flavors like ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Made with high-quality ingredients and a luscious creamy dressing, it offers a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare and delightful to serve. Discover the joy of summer dining with this crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

8 oz (about 2 cups) of pasta (opt for rotini or fusilli for better sauce adherence)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (vibrant red ones work best)

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved (look for the creamier variety)

½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (use whole leaves for garnish)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)

½ cup heavy cream (or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (high-quality oil enhances flavor)

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (aged for added sweetness)

1 clove garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder for a milder flavor)

Salt and pepper to taste (freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Prepare the Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix until the sauce is smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the cooled pasta, add in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, chopped basil, and the creamy sauce. Gently fold and toss the ingredients together with a spatula or tongs until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and all components are well distributed.

Chill and Serve: Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before serving, take a moment to taste the salad and tweak the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Garnish: Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. For an elegant touch, drizzle with balsamic reduction and add additional fresh basil leaves on top. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings