This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s both tasty and quick to whip up for any meal!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser! Sometimes I add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt for that extra yum. Perfect for potlucks or a light lunch on a sunny day! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: I love this pasta shape because it holds the dressing well. If you don’t have orecchiette, any short pasta like fusilli or penne works great too!
Cherry Tomatoes: Mixed-color cherry tomatoes add visual appeal. If they’re out of season, you can use diced regular tomatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella gives that creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try using marinated tofu cubes or vegan cheese. Both will still be delicious!
Fresh Basil: Basil is essential for flavor! If fresh basil isn’t handy, consider dried basil, but use it sparingly since it’s more potent.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil works nicely too!
How Do You Make the Pasta Perfectly Al Dente?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial for this salad! Here’s how to get that perfect al dente texture:
- Use a large pot of salted water to boil the pasta; it helps flavor the pasta.
- Check the pasta package for cooking times, but start tasting a minute or two before the time is up.
- It should be firm but not hard – just slightly chewy. Drain it promptly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if available)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking. If you refrigerate it to let the flavors meld, add an extra 3 hours. So, in total, about 3 hours and 15 minutes, but most of that is just waiting time as it chills!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add the orecchiette pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. When it’s done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to quickly cool it down. Let it sit and drain well to remove excess water.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Gently fold these ingredients together with a spatula to avoid breaking the mozzarella.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if you’re using it), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This will create a lovely dressing to bring the salad together.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently. Make sure everything is coated evenly with the dressing, enhancing the delightful flavors!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste! You can add more salt, pepper, or olive oil if needed. Adjust until it’s just right for your palate!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl. Garnish with whole basil leaves and, if you like a kick of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top.
7. Enjoy or Refrigerate:
Serve immediately to enjoy fresh flavors, or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together deliciously. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course!
This Caprese Pasta Salad is all about vibrant colors and fantastic taste! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is recommended for its unique shape, you can easily substitute it with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Do I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Great idea! You can prepare the pasta and chop the veggies up to 4 hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid soggy ingredients. Combine everything right before serving for the freshest taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing, which can change the texture slightly when reheated.
Can I Add Extra Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like sliced avocado, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken for added protein. Just be mindful of balancing flavors and textures!
