Caprese Pasta Salad
Instructions
- Cook pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, combine olive oil, balsamic, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small jar. Shake well.
- Toss cooled pasta with tomatoes, mozzarella, and dressing. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes for the flavors to come together.
- Add fresh basil right before serving (it will darken if dressed too early). Taste and adjust seasoning — it usually needs more salt than you expect.
Notes
This is best at room temperature, not cold. If making ahead, hold the mozzarella and basil and add them just before serving.