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Pasta salad is one of the most versatile dishes you can prepare, adaptable for any occasion, whether it's a casual summer picnic, a potluck gathering, or a festive holiday feast. Its ability to blend flavors and textures makes it a perennial favorite among many home cooks. Today, we're diving into a delightful variation known as Caprese Pasta Salad, a dish that not only pleases the palate but also brings a burst of color to your table.

Caprese Pasta Salad with Mozzarella Pearls

Discover the vibrant flavors of Caprese Pasta Salad with Mozzarella Pearls! This refreshing dish combines juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and aromatic basil with perfectly cooked fusilli pasta, all drizzled with high-quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or light lunches, this colorful salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also packed with nutrition. Easy to prepare and customize, it's a delightful way to elevate any meal. Enjoy the burst of fresh flavors in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz. (about 2 cups) fusilli pasta (or your preferred pasta variety)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup mozzarella pearls, drained

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once finished, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Whisk the mixture until well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference.

      Combine the Fresh Ingredients: In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and torn basil leaves. If you’re including the optional toasted pine nuts, sprinkle them in at this stage for added texture and flavor.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

          Chill and Serve: Allow the pasta salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors develop and meld together beautifully. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, and consider garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves for an elegant touch.

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

              Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, consider serving the pasta salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors. A sprinkle of extra pine nuts on top and a few whole basil leaves will add an appetizing finish!