Indulge in a delightful blend of Italian flavors with this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines the richness of creamy dressing with the fresh taste of basil and tomatoes.
Ingredients
Scale:
12 oz rotini pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz mozzarella balls, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard for extra tanginess
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring the dressing has a balanced flavor profile.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and red onion. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent taste in every bite.
Mix in the Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated. Use a gentle folding motion to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing.
