Avocado Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (about 225g) pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the drained pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare the ingredients: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the remaining ingredients. Dice the avocados, halve the cherry tomatoes, halve the fresh mozzarella balls, and chop the fresh basil leaves.
3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
4. Assemble the salad: Add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
5. Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
6. Season and chill: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For extra flavor, you can also drizzle some balsamic glaze over the salad. Once seasoned to your liking, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
8. Enjoy your Avocado Caprese Pasta Salad!

Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasoning according to your taste preferences. This salad is versatile and can be customized with additional ingredients such as olives, pine nuts, or grilled chicken for added protein.