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Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

A close-up of creamy caprese pasta salad featuring fusilli pasta, mozzarella balls, halved cherry tomatoes, and basil in a creamy sauce.
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You will make this easy, cold pasta salad featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil coated in a rich, creamy dressing. It is perfect for picnics or as a summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound short pasta such as rotini or penne
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved or quartered
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cools, prepare the creamy dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella pieces.
  4. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.
  5. Stir in the fresh chopped basil.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
  7. Before serving your picnic perfect pasta salad, drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.

Notes

  • For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • You can make this make ahead cold pasta salad up to one day in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator.
  • If you are preparing this for a large gathering, double the recipe easily.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/