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As the temperatures rise and the days stretch longer, the appeal of lighter, refreshing dishes becomes undeniable. One such dish that embodies the essence of summer is the Chilled Caprese Pasta Delight. This vibrant recipe brilliantly combines the classic Italian flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil into a delightful chilled pasta salad, making it the perfect accompaniment for warm weather gatherings or a quick, satisfying meal at home.

Cold Caprese Pasta Salad

Discover the refreshing taste of summer with Chilled Caprese Pasta Delight! This vibrant pasta salad combines ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, making it the perfect dish for warm weather gatherings or quick meals at home. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's ideal for barbecues, picnics, or meal prep. Elevate your dining experience with this light, flavorful recipe that celebrates seasonal ingredients and the essence of summer.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta (preferably fusilli or penne)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into pieces

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 clove garlic, finely minced

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted for added crunch

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous amount of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once finished, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, finely minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously until all ingredients are well integrated and emulsified.

      Combine the Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella, chopped baby spinach, and torn basil leaves. If you’re using them, sprinkle in the toasted pine nuts to introduce a delightful crunch to the dish.

        Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or large spoon, making sure each ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.

          Chill: Once combined, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Serve: Remove the salad from the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss just before serving. This dish is perfect served cold as a refreshing side or a light main course. Enjoy the vibrant colors and the delightful flavors of your Caprese pasta salad!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr | Serves 4