Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caprese pasta salad is bursting with fresh, bright flavors, and the combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil is always a winner. The pasta adds a satisfying element, making it a great option for a more substantial meal or side dish. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite additions like olives, arugula, or even grilled chicken. Plus, it can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a perfect dish for picnics or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (like rotini, farfalle, or penne)

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

• Optional: 1/4 cup pine nuts or toasted walnuts for extra crunch

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set aside to drain completely.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. If using, add the black olives and nuts for extra flavor and texture.

4. Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra basil leaves if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 25-30 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

• For extra protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make the salad more filling.

• For added greens: Toss in some fresh arugula, spinach, or baby kale for more texture and flavor.

• For a spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the dressing for some heat.

• For a different cheese: Try using feta cheese or burrata instead of mozzarella for a different creamy element.

• For a tangy twist: Add a few tablespoons of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Caprese pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

• Reheating: While Caprese pasta salad is typically served cold, you can reheat it gently in the microwave if preferred, though the fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil will lose their crispness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, Caprese pasta salad actually tastes better when made ahead of time, as the flavors have a chance to meld together. It can be made up to 2 days in advance.

2. Can I use regular mozzarella instead of mozzarella balls?

Yes, you can use regular mozzarella cheese. Just chop it into small cubes, similar to the size of the mozzarella balls used in the recipe.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any short pasta works well, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure it’s a pasta that will hold the dressing and ingredients well.

4. How can I make this salad vegan?

To make the salad vegan, simply replace the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese, such as vegan mozzarella, or omit the cheese altogether for a lighter version.

5. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, you can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make this salad more filling and add an extra protein boost.

6. How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

Caprese pasta salad will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, the tomatoes and basil are best fresh, so the salad may lose some of its texture over time.

7. Can I use a store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing is highly recommended for flavor, you can use a store-bought balsamic vinaigrette if you’re short on time.

8. Can I make this pasta salad without the balsamic vinegar?

Yes, if you prefer, you can swap the balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar or even lemon juice for a lighter, more refreshing dressing.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! You can add cucumbers, roasted peppers, or even olives for more texture and flavor.

10. Can I serve this salad warm?

Caprese pasta salad is best served cold or at room temperature, but it can be eaten warm if you prefer. However, the fresh ingredients will lose their crispness when warm.

Conclusion

Caprese pasta salad is a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines the best of Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta. It’s perfect for a light lunch, as a side dish at a BBQ, or even for meal prepping. With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic dressing, every bite is bursting with flavor. This simple yet delicious salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!