Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad hits that sweet spot between fresh and filling. It pairs the classic Caprese combination of tomatoes mozzarella and basil with tender noodles and a creamy tangy dressing for an ideal warm weather meal. After a picnic where my friends kept asking for the recipe I have been coming back to this salad every summer.

I threw this salad together on a hot day when I wanted something both cool and comforting. Now it is my go to for any cookout and even the kids eventually fight over the last spoonful.

Ingredients

• Small pasta shapes like fusilli or penne: Choose one with places for dressing to cling
• Mozzarella balls: Soft creamy texture soaks up dressing Choose good quality in brine
• Cherry tomatoes: Bright sweet juicy flavor Choose firm ripe ones with glossy skin
• Fresh basil: Adds herbal lift and color Slice just before using for best aroma
• Extra virgin olive oil: Rich base for the dressing Always taste before buying
• White balsamic vinegar: Gently tangy and slightly sweet Lighter and less harsh than dark varieties
• Kosher salt: Essential for pasta water and seasoning Try to use a flaky sea salt for best flavor
• Fresh black pepper: Always grind fresh for more aroma and heat
• Fresh garlic: Adds bite and depth Mince just before using for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil water and season it well with kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente following the package directions. Drain right away and rinse lightly with cold water. This stops cooking and keeps the pasta from sticking.

Prep the Mix-Ins:

As the pasta cooks drain mozzarella balls and cut them in half for easier eating. Wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them just through the middle so they release a bit of juice. Stack the basil leaves roll them into a cigar shape then slice as thin as you can.

Combine the Salad:

Once the pasta is cool move it to a large mixing bowl. Add the mozzarella halves tomato halves and basil. Toss gently so everything distributes evenly but the tomatoes do not get smashed.

Mix the Creamy Dressing:

In a separate small bowl whisk together extra virgin olive oil white balsamic vinegar minced garlic salt and black pepper until the mixture emulsifies and thickens just a bit. If using a jar cover and shake well.

Dress and Toss:

Pour the dressing evenly over the salad in the big bowl. Toss again with big gentle movements so the creamy dressing coats every bite. Give it a taste and add more salt or pepper as needed.

Rest or Serve:

Let the salad rest for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve at room temperature for the best taste. You can refrigerate leftovers for up to three days and the flavors deepen with time.

Pin

Fresh basil is my favorite part of this recipe because nothing else can match its perfume and flavor. The day my mom helped me pick basil from her garden for this salad I realized just how much better it tastes when the leaves are just snipped.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate the pasta salad in an airtight container after prepping. It tastes even better the next day so do not worry if you have leftovers. Give it a gentle toss before serving again to refresh the dressing and check if it needs a pinch more salt.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use bocconcini mozzarella or mozzarella cubes if you cannot find ciliegine or pearls. Try grape tomatoes if cherry are not sweet enough. For a tangier twist add a spoonful of pesto into the dressing or swap white balsamic for apple cider vinegar if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This salad works well as a meal on its own especially on warm days. It pairs nicely with grilled chicken shrimp or even sliced steak. For a party I love to spoon leftovers onto toasted baguette slices as a twist on bruschetta.

Pin

Cultural Context

Caprese salad is an Italian classic from the island of Capri known for featuring the colors of the Italian flag tomatoes mozzarella and basil. The pasta variation brings a heartier twist perfect for potlucks and offers a way to enjoy those flavors in a more filling dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best?

Choose small pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or orecchiette for ideal texture and even dressing distribution.

→ Can I substitute mozzarella pearls?

Yes, ciliegine or chopped fresh mozzarella also works well for creamy texture and rich flavor.

→ How long does it keep in the fridge?

This dish keeps well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

→ How can I enhance the flavor?

Allowing the salad to rest for 30 minutes after tossing blends the flavors beautifully.

→ Is this served warm or cold?

This pasta is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it a convenient make-ahead option.