Print

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 24 reviews

A vibrant and creamy Caprese pasta salad combining al dente pasta, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, all tossed in a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a flavorful side dish, this recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
  • 16 ounces mozzarella balls (such as ciliegine or pearls), halved
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil

For the Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed

Instructions

  1. Cook and Cool the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and generously season it with kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse lightly with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Mozzarella and Tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, drain the mozzarella balls and cut them in half. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and place both in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the mozzarella and tomatoes. Add the thinly sliced basil and gently toss all ingredients together to combine.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk or shake together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until thoroughly combined.
  5. Dress the Salad and Serve: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. For best flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes before serving. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use small-shaped pasta to hold the dressing and ingredients well.
  • Rinsing pasta with cold water prevents overcooking and helps it cool quickly.
  • Adjust salt and pepper levels according to your taste preferences.
  • This salad is best served at room temperature or chilled.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, mozzarella pasta, cherry tomatoes salad, Italian pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad

Find it online: https://leofoster.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/