Go Back
Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad

A refreshing dish that combines the classic Italian Caprese salad with hearty pasta, featuring fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Basics
  • 8 ounces fusilli or penne pasta Choose a shape that holds dressing well.
Salad Ingredients
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Use ripe tomatoes for best flavor.
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or torn Look for moist, springy mozzarella.
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn Use sweet basil for the traditional taste.
Dressing
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Use high-quality olive oil.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt A pinch of salt enhances flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper Add to taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. While the pasta cooks, wash and dry the basil leaves, halve the cherry tomatoes, and cube the mozzarella.
  3. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool.
Assembly
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cubes.
  2. Add torn basil leaves to the mixture.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  5. Allow the salad to rest for about 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Garnishing
  1. Sprinkle additional fresh basil leaves and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
  2. Serve on a large platter or individual cups for an appealing presentation.

Notes

Caprese Pasta Salad is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container for 3-5 days. Add fresh basil just before serving for the best flavor.