Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors, combining fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with perfectly cooked pasta. Dressed with a light balsamic vinaigrette, this dish is a refreshing and satisfying option for warm weather, potlucks, or a quick and easy meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick – This recipe requires minimal preparation and is ready in no time.
- Fresh and Flavorful – The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a bright and delicious dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or bring it to gatherings.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep – It keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pasta (such as rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or mozzarella pearls)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the Pasta – Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Ingredients – While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the basil, and mince the garlic.
- Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Everything – In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top and mix well to combine.
- Serve or Chill – Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Add Protein – Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a kick.
- Use Different Cheese – Try feta, parmesan shavings, or a vegan cheese alternative.
- Try a Different Dressing – Swap balsamic vinaigrette for pesto or a lemon-garlic dressing.
- Include More Vegetables – Add cucumber, avocado, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating – This pasta salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if desired, gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
- Refreshing the Salad – If the pasta absorbs the dressing, add a splash of olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving.
FAQs
How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking and toss it with a bit of olive oil before adding other ingredients.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and refresh with extra dressing before serving.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, bowtie, or fusilli work best as they hold the dressing well.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil provides the best flavor, but if needed, use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil as a substitute.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
Can I add nuts for extra crunch?
Yes, toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds add a nice texture.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?
Yes, but reduce the quantity slightly as balsamic glaze is more concentrated and sweet.
What can I serve with Caprese Pasta Salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How do I prevent the mozzarella from getting too soft?
Use fresh, chilled mozzarella and add it just before serving to maintain its texture.
Conclusion
Caprese Pasta Salad is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Whether served as a side or a light meal, it is perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a quick dinner. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy this refreshing pasta salad any time!
Print
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and light dish loaded with juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, all tossed in a simple balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (rigatoni or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Can be served warm or chilled.
- Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for more color.