This Best Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and colorful dish! It combines pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tasty dressing.
Perfect for warm days or potlucks, it’s super easy to make! I love serving it cold and watching everyone come back for seconds (or thirds!). Just grab a fork, and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is great for holding the sauce, but any pasta works. You can use fusilli, rotini, or even penne. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be a good substitute if you’re looking for something healthier or cater to dietary needs.
Cherry Tomatoes: I like using mixed-color cherry tomatoes; they add a pop of color and a variety of flavors. If cherry tomatoes are unavailable, consider grape tomatoes or even chopped regular tomatoes.
Fresh Mozzarella: Ciliegine is perfect for this recipe, but if you can’t find them, any small mozzarella balls will do. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan mozzarella alternatives that melt well.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic Caprese flavor. In a pinch, you can use fresh parsley or Italian herbs, but it won’t quite match the original taste. Dried basil can work too, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
Balsamic Vinegar: If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can provide a nice tang. Balsamic reduction is sweeter and thicker, which can enhance the dish.
How Do I Make the Perfect Pasta Salad Dressing?
The dressing balances the salad and is easy to make! Start by whisking the olive oil and balsamic vinegar together, adding garlic powder or minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure to taste the dressing to see if it needs adjustments. A splash of lemon juice adds a nice brightness.
- Mix the olive oil and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl, whisking thoroughly.
- Add garlic, salt, and pepper, and continue whisking until well combined.
- Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference. Don’t forget to taste again after tossing with the pasta!
How to Make Best Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved, mixed colors preferred)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine size)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (torn)
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or balsamic reduction)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes in total—15 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, and then another 10 minutes for preparing the dressing and mixing your salad together. Plus, it’s a good idea to let it sit for 15 minutes before serving, so the flavors can come together nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This will help prevent it from sticking together.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella balls. These vibrant ingredients create a colorful and inviting salad!
3. Add Fresh Basil:
Next, add the torn basil leaves to the bowl. Don’t be shy with the basil; it adds that lovely fresh flavor that the Caprese salad is known for!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder (or minced garlic), salt, and pepper. This tasty dressing is what brings everything together, so mix it well!
5. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated. If you need to, taste it and adjust the seasoning to your liking!
6. Add Optional Garnish:
If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top of the salad. This is completely optional but adds a nice touch!
7. Let It Sit:
Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps all the delicious flavors blend together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your Caprese Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. If you want, garnish with additional basil leaves for an extra pop of freshness. Enjoy your delightful and refreshing salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can refresh it by drizzling with a bit more olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your Caprese Pasta Salad by adding ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Just be mindful not to add too much moisture, which can make the salad soggy.
Is This Salad Vegetarian/Vegan?
This Caprese Pasta Salad is vegetarian due to the mozzarella, but you can easily make it vegan by substituting the mozzarella with vegan cheese or omitting it altogether while increasing the amount of cherry tomatoes and basil for flavor.
