Caprese Pasta Salad

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Caprese Pasta Salad is the refreshing summer dish you didn’t know you needed. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, this recipe brings juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil into a vibrant pasta dish tossed with a light balsamic vinaigrette. It’s bright, flavorful, and wonderfully easy to put together.

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal, this salad is as beautiful as it is delicious. It balances fresh and savory in a way that makes every bite sing, whether you serve it warm, chilled, or at room temperature.

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad

This salad delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It comes together quickly and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients. You get that perfect combination of chewy pasta, sweet tomatoes, creamy cheese, and fragrant basil all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s flexible, too—you can enjoy it as a main or a side, and it travels well, making it ideal for any gathering.

Can I Use Any Kind of Pasta for Caprese Pasta Salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle work best because they hold the dressing and cling to the ingredients nicely. While you could use spaghetti or linguine, they don’t capture the vinaigrette quite as effectively. Whole wheat or gluten-free options also work just as well if that’s your preference.

Ingredients for the Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad celebrates simplicity, and the ingredient list reflects that. Each component brings its own charm and plays a role in creating a balanced and fresh dish.

• Rotini pasta: Its spiral shape is perfect for catching vinaigrette and bits of tomato and basil.
• Cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juicy bite are essential for that fresh Caprese feel.
• Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini): These soft, creamy bites melt slightly into the warm pasta for a luxurious texture.
• Fresh basil leaves: Torn by hand, basil adds a fragrant, peppery note that defines the dish.
• Extra virgin olive oil: It creates the base of the vinaigrette and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds brightness and tang, elevating the salad with its slight sweetness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How To Make the Caprese Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle with the balsamic dressing and toss everything gently until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

You can serve the salad right away, but for best flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Give it one last toss before serving.

How to Serve and Store Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad feeds about 4 to 6 people as a main or 8 as a side. It’s ideal for summer gatherings, light lunches, or even a meal prep staple. Serve it chilled for a refreshing bite or room temp if you’re packing it on the go.

To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If needed, freshen it up with a drizzle of olive oil or more basil before serving again.

What to Serve With Caprese Pasta Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

The smoky char pairs beautifully with the freshness of the pasta salad.

Garlic Bread

A crunchy slice of garlic bread is the perfect companion and great for mopping up extra vinaigrette.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl

Serve alongside or even mix into the pasta for a protein-packed twist.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

Double up on the tomato-basil magic with this cozy main dish that complements the chilled salad.

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

These veggies bring out more summer flavor and make the meal feel balanced and nourishing.

Lemonade or Iced Tea

Add a cooling drink that plays off the brightness of the salad.

Charcuterie Board

Add some prosciutto, marinated olives, and crusty bread for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Caprese Pasta Salad, you’ll want to try a few of these pasta favorites next:

• One Pan Garlic and Herb Pasta for a weeknight-friendly dinner full of aromatic flavor.
• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta if you crave something hearty with a silky sauce.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta when you’re in the mood for bold spice and creaminess.
• Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce Recipe for a high-protein, low-effort creamy twist.
• Zucchini Lasagna if you want something cozy yet packed with fresh vegetables.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest summer board so you can come back to it whenever you need a crowd-pleasing pasta salad.

Let me know in the comments if you added grilled chicken, a touch of garlic, or even swapped in sun-dried tomatoes. I love hearing how you make these recipes your own!

Explore beautifully curated healthy and delicious pasta inspirations on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next favorite!

Conclusion

Caprese Pasta Salad is the dish that turns ordinary ingredients into something memorable. It’s the definition of summer simplicity and one you’ll reach for again and again. Whether it’s the star of your table or a supporting side, it delivers freshness in every bite.

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