This Best Caprese Pasta Salad brings together fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Tossed with your favorite pasta, it’s a colorful and tasty dish everyone will love!
I like to serve it chilled on warm days. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up that I can make it while pretending to be fancy! 🍅🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is a great pick because its shape holds the dressing well. However, you can switch it up with any small pasta like farfalle, fusilli, or penne. Just keep the cooking time in mind as each type may vary.
Cherry Tomatoes: Mixing red and yellow tomatoes adds a nice color and flavor contrast. If you can’t find fresh tomatoes, you could use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense taste or canned diced tomatoes in a pinch.
Fresh Mozzarella: These little balls, or bocconcini, bring creaminess to the salad. If you’re out of mozzarella, try using feta or diced avocado for a different twist. Just remember, the texture will change slightly.
Basil: Fresh basil really brightens the salad. If you don’t have it, consider substituting with chopped parsley or arugula for a peppery punch, though the flavor will differ a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan adds a wonderful depth. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast, which gives a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad Stays Fresh and Flavorful?
Letting your Caprese Pasta Salad sit for a bit before serving is key for great flavor. This allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and the tomatoes to release their juices. Follow these steps:
- After combining everything, cover the salad and let it rest for at least 10 minutes.
- For the best experience, make the salad ahead of time and chill it for an hour—just be sure to toss it lightly before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy within a couple of days for the freshest taste!
Best Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 ounces orecchiette or small pasta of choice
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mix red and yellow)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this dish is about 30 minutes, with around 15 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for the flavors to blend before serving. Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool.
2. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. This will be the delicious fresh component of your salad.
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing will add wonderful flavor to your salad.
4. Combining Everything:
Add the cooked pasta to the tomato and mozzarella mixture in the large bowl. Then, pour the prepared dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well-coated with the dressing.
5. Adding Optional Toppings:
If you like, sprinkle the salad with grated Parmesan cheese and add red pepper flakes for a little kick. This is totally optional but can really enhance the flavor!
6. Letting it Sit:
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors blend beautifully together.
7. Serving:
Serve the Caprese Pasta Salad at room temperature or chilled. It’s refreshing and perfect as a side dish or light meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While orecchiette works beautifully, you can use any small pasta shape like fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just be sure to cook it until it’s al dente, as it will absorb some dressing and flavors as it sits.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
This salad can be made ahead! Simply prepare it without the dressing and cheese, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, add the dressing and cheese to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
How to Store Leftover Caprese Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing and becomes dry, add a splash of olive oil or a bit more balsamic vinegar to revive it when serving.
Can I Substitute Ingredients in This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to customize! For a vegan option, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also swap balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different twist. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can replace basil if you prefer!
