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Balsamic Caprese Rigatoni Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Course Salad
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces rigatoni pasta
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it quickly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until combined.
  • Add the cooled rigatoni, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed fresh mozzarella, and chopped fresh basil to the bowl with the dressing.
  • Toss everything gently until the pasta and other ingredients are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Notes

Prepare the salad up to a day ahead so the balsamic dressing can soak into the rigatoni. If you make it the night before, stir in the basil right before serving to keep the leaves bright and fresh. The mozzarella cubes stay firm when the salad is kept chilled.
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large Pot, Colander, Mixing Bowl