If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious summer dish, look no further than this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe. Combining al dente pasta with creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, all drizzled with a simple yet flavorful dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s easy to make, beautifully colorful, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner that feels indulgent without any hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe plays a key role in bringing together a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the chewy pasta base to the smooth mozzarella and the bright, tangy dressing, simplicity truly shines here.
- 1 pound short pasta: Fusilli, orecchiette, or penne hold the dressing beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls: Ciliegine or pearls give little bursts of creamy richness in every forkful.
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness adds a juicy pop and vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup slivered fresh basil: Fresh basil brings that iconic herbal freshness that defines this salad.
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil: A good quality oil is essential for a rich, silky dressing.
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Both for seasoning the pasta water and the dressing to bring out the best flavors.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Just the right amount of mild heat to balance the salad.
- 1 garlic clove: Pressed or minced to infuse the dressing with gentle, aromatic depth.
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and seasoning it generously with kosher salt. This is your chance to infuse the pasta with flavor while it cooks. Add the pasta and cook it until just al dente — meaning it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta in a colander and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, get to work on the mozzarella and tomatoes. Drain the mozzarella balls and slice them in half if they are large. Then, halve the cherry tomatoes. Toss these juicy ingredients into a big mixing bowl along with the cooled pasta and the fresh slivered basil. This combination already looks stunning and smells irresistible!
Step 3: Make the Dressing and Combine
In a small bowl or a mason jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, pressed garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake well until everything is emulsified and beautifully blended. Drizzle this dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything to coat each bite with flavor. Let the salad sit for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the tastes to meld and deepen. It’s even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours.
How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness and presentation, sprinkle some additional slivered basil or torn basil leaves on top right before serving. You can also add a light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper or a few shreds of Parmesan cheese for a subtle umami kick that elevates the salad beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty garlic bread, or a light green salad for a balanced meal. It also makes a colorful and flavorful potluck contribution alongside roasted vegetables or your favorite antipasto platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the salad layered in a clear glass trifle bowl so you can see all those colorful ingredients. Alternatively, create individual servings in small mason jars or bowls for picnics and gatherings. Adding a few extra basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving can amp up both taste and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe keeps very well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, but be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, making it a bit softer over time.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled, so freezing is not recommended. The fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil lose their texture and vibrancy when frozen, and the mozzarella can become rubbery.
Reheating
Since this salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is unnecessary. Simply give it a gentle stir and let it come to room temp for about 10 minutes before serving if taken straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While short pasta like fusilli or penne works best to hold the dressing and ingredients, feel free to experiment with farfalle, rotini, or even small shells. Just keep the pasta size manageable for easy eating.
Do I have to use fresh mozzarella balls?
Fresh mozzarella balls provide the perfect creamy texture and mild flavor essential to this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe. If you can’t find them, small cubes of fresh mozzarella will work, though the bite-size mozzarella balls are ideal.
Can this salad be made vegan?
You can create a vegan version by swapping mozzarella for a plant-based cheese alternative that holds its shape well. Also, make sure to use a balsamic vinegar without any added honey or animal products.
Is it okay to prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! In fact, making it 30 minutes to a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld deliciously. Keep it refrigerated and toss gently just before serving.
What can I add to make this salad more filling?
To boost the salad’s protein content, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even toasted pine nuts. These add texture and substance without overpowering the classic Caprese flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that’s simple to put together yet impresses with its fresh, vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. Perfect for any occasion when you want a light meal that feels like a little celebration of summer on your plate!
Print
Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad featuring tender pasta, creamy mozzarella balls, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, all tossed in a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, this salad is quick to prepare and ideal for warm-weather gatherings or meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound short pasta, such as fusilli, orecchiette, or penne
Cheese & Vegetables
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls, ciliegine or pearls
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup slivered fresh basil
Dressing
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for salting the pasta water
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 garlic clove, pressed or minced
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season generously with kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook just until al dente, about 8-10 minutes depending on pasta type. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse lightly with cold water to stop cooking and cool the noodles. Set aside to fully cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese: While the pasta cooks, drain the mozzarella balls and cut them in half. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, mozzarella halves, cherry tomatoes, and slivered fresh basil, mixing gently to combine.
- Make the Dressing and Toss: In a small bowl or mason jar with a lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, pressed or minced garlic, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Shake or whisk well until emulsified. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture, toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella balls for the creamiest texture and authentic flavor.
- Choose ripe cherry tomatoes for the sweetest and most vibrant taste.
- Make sure to salt the pasta water generously to season the pasta itself.
- The salad is best after chilling for at least 30 minutes but can be eaten sooner if necessary.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, but the basil may darken over time.
