This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and tasty dish made with pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s perfect for warm days or a quick meal!
I love how colorful it looks on the plate. Plus, making this salad is a breeze—just mix everything together, and you’re ready to go. Perfect for picnics or BBQs! 🍅🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is my go-to for this salad, but feel free to swap it with rotini, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta. Choose what you love! Cook it just until al dente for the best texture.
Cherry Tomatoes: I like to use a mix of colors—red, yellow, and orange—because they look beautiful together! If you can’t find them, halved larger tomatoes can work too, just make sure they’re juicy.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini adds creaminess, but you can use regular mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand. For a dairy-free option, try vegan mozzarella or even grilled zucchini to add a similar texture.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for flavor! If you don’t have fresh, dried basil can be used, but reduce the amount as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Is Well Mixed?
The key to a well-mixed pasta salad is how you combine the ingredients. Here’s a simple guide:
- After draining your pasta, rinse it under cold water to prevent it from sticking together.
- When mixing, start by adding your heavier ingredients like pasta and tomatoes, then gently fold in the mozzarella and basil last to avoid breaking them.
- Drizzle your dressing over the mix rather than combining it all in one go. This ensures even coverage and flavor.
Finally, take your time when tossing—gentle movements will keep everything intact while ensuring every bite is delicious!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients:
- 3 cups orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red, yellow, and orange if possible)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional for a slight tang)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This delicious Caprese Pasta Salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill, so plan on about 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, making it a great choice for a last-minute meal or side dish!
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the orecchiette pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water, following the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta, and then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, drained mozzarella balls, and minced garlic. These ingredients create a wonderful base full of color and flavor!
3. Add Fresh Basil:
Next, add the torn or chopped basil leaves to the bowl, giving the salad that lovely fresh taste. Basil truly enhances the overall flavor of this salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad mixture. If you’re skipping the balsamic, just the olive oil is fantastic as well!
5. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start small and adjust as needed.
6. Toss and Combine:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined and the dressing coats the pasta and vegetables evenly. Be careful not to break the mozzarella balls!
7. Serve or Chill:
Transfer your vibrant pasta salad to a serving dish. You can garnish it with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of spice if you’d like!
8. Enjoy!
Your fresh and colorful Caprese Pasta Salad is ready! Serve it immediately, or for enhanced flavors, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
FAQs About Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Can I Use Other Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great, you can substitute with any small pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just follow the cooking time as per the package instructions!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just mix everything together, cover, and refrigerate. For optimal freshness, add the mozzarella and basil just before serving to keep them vibrant!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier over time! Just give it a gentle toss before serving again.
What Can I Use Instead of Balsamic Vinegar?
If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinegar, you can try red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy flavor. Just adjust the amount to your taste—start with less and add more as needed!
