Hey y'all! If you're craving something fresh, light, and loaded with flavor, this Caprese Pasta Salad has you covered. With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a zippy balsamic dressing, it's the ultimate crowd-pleaser for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Both stunning to look at and simple to prepare, this dish brings the sun-soaked taste of Italy straight to your table. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad
- Ready in just 25 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Uses fresh, wholesome ingredients bursting with summery flavor.
- Can be made ahead and travels well for picnics or lunches.
- Customizable for different diets or flavor preferences.
- Visually gorgeous—ideal for impressing guests!
Caprese Pasta Salad Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (like rotini, fusilli, or penne)
- 2 cups (300 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), halved
- ½ cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 9–11 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Caprese Pasta Salad to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-worthy finish. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips
- For more info on cooking pasta perfectly, check out this guide to cooking pasta.
- Use high-quality olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar for the best flavor payoff.
- Letting the salad sit for 15–30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Caprese Pasta Salad Variations
- Grilled Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad: Add grilled, sliced chicken breast for extra protein.
- Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: Swap the olive oil and balsamic for ¼ cup basil pesto.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
Equipment Needed for Caprese Pasta Salad
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Caprese Pasta Salad Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Caprese Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If making ahead, keep the basil and dressing separate, then mix them in just before serving for maximum freshness.
Serving & Pairings for Caprese Pasta Salad
- Enjoy as a light main dish or a zesty side alongside grilled meats or seafood.
- Pairs deliciously with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling lemonade.
- Serve with fresh bread or focaccia to soak up the tangy dressing.
Pro Tips for Caprese Pasta Salad Success
- Look for mozzarella balls labeled "ciliegine" for optimal creaminess.
- For more nutritional insights, explore these healthy summer eating tips.
- After assembling, chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving for the brightest, most vibrant flavor. See more tips on making perfect pasta salads.
Caprese Pasta Salad FAQ
- Can I make Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare all ingredients except basil, then combine just before serving to keep it fresh.
- Can I use another type of cheese?
- Sure, try cubed feta or burrata for a different spin, though mozzarella is classic for Caprese.
- Is Caprese Pasta Salad served cold or warm?
- It's best served cold or at room temperature so the flavors really pop!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) short pasta (such as fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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2In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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3Add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves to the bowl with the dressing.
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4Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
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5Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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