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Once your pasta has cooled to room temperature, it's time to combine it with the other ingredients and the dressing. Start by transferring the pasta into a large mixing bowl. This spacious bowl will allow you to toss the ingredients gently without breaking apart the delicate components. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil to the bowl.

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Discover the irresistible Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad, a delightful twist on the classic! Perfect for any occasion, this pasta salad combines juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella with hearty pasta, all enveloped in a rich, homemade dressing. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's not just a delicious meal but also a nutritious choice packed with vitamins and minerals. Enjoy it chilled at summer picnics or as a quick dinner option!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini or fusilli pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Creamy Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously until it is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Pour the creamy dressing over the top. Using gentle motions, toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the dressing and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

        Chill for Flavor: Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating a deliciously cohesive dish.

          Serve and Garnish: Before serving, taste the pasta salad and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. For an elegant touch, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

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

              Enjoy your delightful and refreshing Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad!