Caprese Pasta Salad is an easy dinner that is light, fresh, and full of flavor. The classic combo of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil always hits the spot! Whether you’re heading to a barbecue or need a quick lunch, this pasta salad will disappear every time.
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Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
Some days call for easy recipes that I can throw together in a matter of minutes. And when the weather is warm (hello, Florida sunshine!), cold pasta salad is a go-to around here.
This Caprese salad is one of my favorite dishes. It's loaded with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette.
I love how fast this pasta salad comes together. While the noodles are cooking, I chop the ingredients and whisk the dressing. Then, I give it a quick toss, and it’s ready to go. Instant happiness in a bowl!
This time of year, there are many picnics, BBQs, and potlucks where you need a quick dish to share. You can also add grilled chicken to make it a complete meal. This salad is incredibly versatile and the perfect summer dish that everyone will enjoy.
Salad Ingredients
Ready in 20 minutes, this summer pasta salad is easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Noodles: I prefer rotini pasta for this dish. You can also use your favorite pasta, such as small shells, ditalini, or bowtie pasta.
- Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes are ideal for this salad due to their size and texture. I like to cut them in half so they are easier to eat.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls: I used mini snacking mozzarella pearls. You could also use larger ones and slice them in half, or slice a brick of mozzarella cheese into cubes.
- Basil: I recommend fresh basil leaves for this dish. In an absolute pinch, you could use dried basil. However, you need to reduce the amount significantly, or it will be overpowering.
- Balsamic Dressing: This easy recipe works with any dressing, whether you purchase it or make it yourself. Sometimes, I switch it up with this honey balsamic dressing!
How To Make Caprese Pasta Salad
This easy salad comes together in minutes. It's a great side dish to bring to all your summer gatherings.
- Cook the noodles. Boil the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions. Drain the tender pasta thoroughly and then rinse with cold water.
- Prep the veggies. Chop the tomatoes in half and dice the basil leaves into small ribbons.
- Make the dressing. Whisk the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble the ingredients. Place the drained pasta, tomatoes, cheese, and half the basil in a large serving bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and stir until everything is coated.
BruCrew Tip: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Add the remaining basil just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Add protein. Add grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or crispy bacon to create a complete main course.
- Serve it as a side. Serve it with honey Sriracha meatballs or Parmesan chicken tenders for an easy meal.
- Bring it to a picnic. This is an excellent salad for a barbecue because it pairs well with pulled pork, hamburgers, or hot dogs.
Storage Recommendations
Store the leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Since pasta absorbs the dressing, be sure to add more before serving it again.
Jocelyn's Tips and Tricks
- Salt your pasta water. It’s the only chance to season the pasta itself, and it makes a big difference in flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients. Fresh mozzarella pearls, ripe tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves will give your salad that classic Caprese taste.
- Cook the pasta al dente. Nobody likes mushy pasta in a salad. Cook the pasta until it is firm, then rinse it in cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Chill the noodles. Make sure the noodles are completely cooled before adding the simple dressing. This prevents the pasta from absorbing all the dressing, resulting in a drier salad.
- Let it chill. After mixing everything, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
- Add the basil last. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and green.
FAQs
Use avocado chunks! Creamy avocado provides a smooth texture and pairs well with tomatoes and basil. Add it just before serving to prevent browning.
Add the basil right before serving to keep it bright green.
More Cold Pasta Salad Recipes
- Easy Macaroni Salad
- Pizza Pasta Salad
- Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Veggie Pasta Salad
- Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Broccoli Pasta Salad
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Recipe
Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) box rotini pasta
- 2 cups small fresh mozzarella pearls
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup basil leaves, divided
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons table salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the box directions. Drain, rinse, and let cool.
- Remove the mozzarella pearls from the package and set aside.
- On a cutting board, cut the cherry tomatoes in half lengthwise.
- Gather half of the basil leaves and cut into thin ribbons. Set it aside with the tomatoes and cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk the oil, vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place cooked and cooled pasta in a large serving dish. Top with the mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top and mix gently with a spoon.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. Right before serving, top with a pinch of pepper and the remaining basil.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 561Total Fat: 50gSaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 35gCholesterol: 48mgSodium: 1099mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 1gSugar: 5gProtein: 15g
Nutrition facts are an estimate and are not guaranteed to be accurate. If you need special diet advice, please see a registered dietician.
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