Print

Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade Balsamic Reduction

fresh Caprese pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A fresh and flavorful Caprese pasta salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a homemade balsamic reduction glaze. Perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) short pasta like rotini or penne
  • 2 cups (300 grams) fresh cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) fresh mozzarella bocconcini or small mozzarella balls, drained and halved
  • 1 cup (about 25 grams) fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let drain thoroughly for 5 minutes.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup (120 ml) balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally and reduce until thick and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  5. Add the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and torn basil to the bowl. Toss gently to coat in the dressing.
  6. Carefully fold in the halved fresh mozzarella balls, being gentle to avoid breaking them up.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and drizzle the balsamic reduction generously on top.
  8. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or olive oil as needed. Serve immediately or chill for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is best. Use fresh mozzarella at room temperature for better texture. Watch balsamic reduction carefully to avoid burning. Warm thickened balsamic reduction gently before drizzling if needed. Adjust seasoning last to avoid over-salting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, balsamic reduction, fresh mozzarella, tomato salad, easy pasta salad, Italian salad, summer salad

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/fresh-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-balsamic-reduction/