WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Caprese Pasta Salad is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fresh, delicious, and easy meal option. This dish brings together the classic flavors of a traditional Caprese salad— tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella— and combines them with pasta for a satisfying twist. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also packs vibrant colors, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply looking for a light meal during the week, Caprese Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. The combination of cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil tossed with pasta creates a delightful texture and flavor. Plus, this salad can be enjoyed warm, cold, or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
HOW TO MAKE Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 6 ounces (2 cups) whole grain fusilli or rotini pasta
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 8 ounces mozzarella “pearls” or one mozzarella ball, torn into bite-sized pieces
- Several sprigs of fresh basil (enough for 2+ tablespoons chopped)
- 2 to 3 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar or regular balsamic vinegar, to taste
DIRECTIONS
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Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your pasta (either fusilli or rotini) and cook until it’s al dente, following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
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Prepare the Tomatoes: While the pasta is cooking, take a large, non-reactive skillet or Dutch oven and over medium heat, combine the olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and salt. This mixture should be covered with a lid or a baking sheet if you don’t have a proper lid. Cook this for about 6 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the tomatoes begin to burst, releasing their juices into the olive oil.
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Combine Ingredients: Once the tomatoes are ready, remove the skillet from the heat and add the drained pasta. Allow this to cool for a few minutes. It’s important that the pasta is still lightly warm but not hot to avoid melting the cheese in the next step.
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Add Cheese and Basil: Stir in the mozzarella balls or torn mozzarella, along with the chopped fresh basil into the pasta and tomato mixture. After that, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and give everything a good toss. Taste the salad and add more vinegar or salt if it needs more flavor.
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Let It Rest: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 20 minutes. This waiting time allows the pasta to absorb the sauce. This salad can also be refrigerated if you wish to make it for future meals.
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Store Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. They taste delicious whether chilled or at room temperature, but you can also reheat the pasta if you like melted mozzarella.
HOW TO SERVE Caprese Pasta Salad
Caprese Pasta Salad is wonderfully versatile in terms of serving. It can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled proteins like chicken, shrimp, or steak.
For a vibrant presentation, serve it in a large bowl and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves on top. You can also drizzle a bit more olive oil or balsamic vinegar just before serving to enhance the flavors. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a quick lunch at work.
Plating Ideas
- Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for individual portions at a gathering.
- Large Serving Bowl: For family-style dining, place everything in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves.
- Layering: For a beautiful presentation, layer the ingredients in a clear bowl or jar to showcase the colors.
HOW TO STORE Caprese Pasta Salad
To store your Caprese Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for meal prep.
If you prefer, you can also freeze the pasta salad. However, note that the texture of mozzarella may change after freezing, making it less creamy. If storing in the fridge, ensure you are keeping it away from any strong-smelling foods to prevent it from absorbing odors.
TIPS TO MAKE Caprese Pasta Salad
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to this salad. Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives can provide additional flavors and textures.
- Pasta Choices: While fusilli and rotini are great options because they hold dressing well, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand.
- Freshness: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially when it comes to the olive oil, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
- Make Ahead: This is a perfect dish to prepare ahead of time for gatherings. The flavors only get better as they mingle.
- Adjust the Vinegar: Depending on your taste, you can add more or less vinegar. Experimenting with different types of vinegar can also yield interesting results.
VARIATIONS
- Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. Fresh spinach can also be added for more greens.
- Pesto Sauce: Rather than using olive oil and vinegar, toss the pasta salad with basil pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
- Protein Addition: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to transform this salad into a more filling meal.
- Seasonal Colors: Depending on the season, consider swapping out cherry tomatoes for roasted tomatoes in the winter or adding seasonal vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use regular pasta instead of whole grain?
Yes, regular pasta can be used instead of whole grain pasta. The cooking method will remain the same.
How can I make this dish vegan?
You can omit mozzarella or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You might also consider adding avocado for creaminess.
Can I prepare this salad the night before?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator, and let it rest before serving to enhance the flavors.
Caprese Pasta Salad is not just a beautiful dish but also a delightful mix of flavors and textures that can easily fit into any meal or occasion. Enjoy creating and sharing this refreshing recipe!
Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, combine olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and salt. Cover and cook for 6 to 12 minutes until the tomatoes begin to burst.
- Remove the skillet from heat and add the drained pasta. Let it cool for a few minutes.
- Stir in the mozzarella and chopped basil. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss to combine. Taste and adjust vinegar or salt as needed.
- For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 20 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Enjoy cold, at room temperature, or reheat.