Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe: A Fresh and Easy Summer Favorite
Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of Italian flavor and satisfying texture, making it a must-have dish for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners. With fresh ingredients like ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, aromatic basil, and al dente pasta tossed in a light vinaigrette, this easy Caprese Pasta Salad recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or prepping meals for the week, this refreshing salad is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of summer.
What Is Caprese Pasta Salad?
Inspired by the traditional Italian Caprese salad, which features tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this version adds pasta to turn a simple starter into a complete, hearty dish. It’s light yet filling, with a balance of freshness and richness that’s perfect for warm-weather meals.
Ingredients for Caprese Pasta Salad
To make this flavorful and easy Caprese Pasta Salad, you’ll need:
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8 oz pasta (such as rotini, penne, or farfalle)
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1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
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Fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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Sliced red onions
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Grilled chicken for protein
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Arugula or spinach for extra greens
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious Caprese Pasta Salad in under 30 minutes:
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly and prevent overcooking.
2. Prep the Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, tear the basil, and prepare the mozzarella.
3. Combine and Toss
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to combine.
4. Chill and Serve
Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. You can also chill it in the fridge for up to a few hours before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad
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Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
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Perfect for summer, picnics, and potlucks
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Vegetarian-friendly and easily customizable
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Packed with flavor from fresh herbs and tangy dressing
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Meal-prep friendly, storing well in the refrigerator
Tips for the Best Caprese Pasta Salad
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Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and good olive oil make a big difference.
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Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in a salad.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature: Both are delicious depending on preference.
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra depth of flavor and presentation.
Conclusion
Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing, versatile dish that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your table. It’s the ultimate go-to recipe for summer and beyond—light, colorful, and bursting with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, this Caprese Pasta Salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Make it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it all season long