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Caprese Pasta Salad - A quick and easy salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella and basil tossed in olive oil for a delicious summer side dish!
It is HOT and humid here in Wisconsin this week, friends! Let me tell you what. It's not a week you want to do much cooking at all. We're sticking to "cool" and fresh foods like this Caprese Pasta Salad. This is a very mild salad that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Simple, pure and fresh ingredients. . .you're going to love it. And whenever I can use the phrase, "chiffonade of basil," it's a good day. By the way, that's exactly what you'll want to do with this basil!
When you put it all together, it's really quite pretty isn't it? Sure beats preheating the oven when the heat index is over 100. I know, I know. That's nothing right? Well, it is here in Wisconsin, but I tell you what. . .I don't think I would trade it for anything. "Summer, you can stay as long as you're able."
That's it. Grab a spoon and a plate and get to eating this wonderful salad. Heck, invite your family and friends over and have them bring something to pass. Potlucks are the best when it's hot outside and no one wants to cook a full meal alone. I love potlucks and tasting everyones' dishes is truly the best part!
Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 16 ounces mini penne pasta (cooked until al dente, rinsed with cool water and drained)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 8 ounces cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 12 basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a large bowl and stir until combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Since this salad relies on the freshness and simplicity of its ingredients, opt for high-quality cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves. Using ripe, flavorful tomatoes and creamy mozzarella enhances the overall taste and texture of the salad, while fresh basil adds a pop of color and herbal aroma.
- Allow Time for Marination: While this salad can be served immediately, allowing it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors. The olive oil, garlic, and seasoning will infuse the pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella with delicious taste. This marination process also allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the salad after combining all the ingredients and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on personal preference, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper to suit your taste buds. Remember that flavors can intensify as the salad sits, so it's a good idea to taste again before serving.
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