bossanime
Novice Foodie
Ciao, food enthusiasts! Get ready to indulge in the fresh and vibrant flavors of Italy with this Italian-Inspired Caprese Pasta Salad. This fusion dish combines al dente pasta with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette. With its colorful ingredients and harmonious flavors, each bite is like a taste of the Italian countryside. Let's dive in and elevate your dinner table with this delicious fusion creation!
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces fusilli pasta (or any short pasta shape)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, halved fresh mozzarella balls, and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the bowl.
- Gently toss the pasta salad until all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing.
- Serve the Italian-Inspired Caprese Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature.
- Enjoy your fresh and flavorful pasta salad, a delicious fusion of Italian-inspired ingredients that will transport you to the sunny shores of Italy with every bite!