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The Caprese salad, known as "Insalata Caprese" in Italian, hails from the island of Capri in Italy. This simple yet elegant salad is renowned for its three primary ingredients: fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil, typically drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Its creation is often attributed to the 1920s, although its roots may stretch further back in Italian culinary traditions.

Caprese Pasta Salad

Dive into summer with the vibrant Caprese Delight Pasta Salad! This delicious fusion blends juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a refreshing dish perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual gatherings. Discover the origins of its ingredients, explore customizable variations, and follow simple instructions to craft this flavorful salad that encapsulates the sunny essence of Italian cuisine. It's a delightful and nutritious addition to any meal!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz. pasta (e.g., fusilli or bowtie)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into smaller pieces

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside to drain completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the mixture together until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if desired.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, drained mozzarella balls, and freshly torn basil leaves. Gently combine the ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon to avoid breaking the mozzarella.

        Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Carefully toss the salad using tongs or a large spoon to ensure that every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.

          Add Pine Nuts (Optional): If you choose to include pine nuts for an extra crunch, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top of the salad. Their nutty flavor complements the other ingredients beautifully.

            Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld wonderfully. Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

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

                Presentation Tips: Serve the salad on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top just before serving for an added touch of elegance and flavor.