Caprese Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

A Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian Caprese salad. It combines juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant fresh basil with tender pasta, all tossed in a simple yet luscious balsamic or olive oil dressing.

This dish perfectly balances freshness and comfort — the bright acidity of tomatoes and balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with the richness of mozzarella and the chewiness of pasta. It’s simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, barbecues, or even a light dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it embodies the essence of summer — light, fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor. It’s effortless to prepare yet looks beautiful and sophisticated. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herby notes.

It’s also incredibly versatile — you can enjoy it cold or at room temperature, as a side dish or a main meal. Best of all, it’s made with just a few ingredients that come together to create something truly special.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Bursting with freshness: The juicy cherry tomatoes and basil provide a refreshing pop in every bite.
• Quick and easy: Takes less than 25 minutes from start to finish.
• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for lunch, dinner, picnics, or meal prep.
• Healthy and balanced: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and calcium.
• Visually stunning: The colors of red, white, and green make it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 350–400 kcal per serving

Cuisine

Italian

Course

Main Course / Side Dish / Salad

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta work best)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze for richer flavor)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (balances acidity)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook the pasta and drain.
2. Prepare the dressing by whisking olive oil, balsamic, honey, and garlic.
3. Combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a bowl.
4. Toss with dressing until evenly coated.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. (Optional) Add a touch of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
2. Pour the dressing over the mixture.
3. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Add Fresh Basil

1. Just before serving, add the torn basil leaves and toss gently once more.
2. Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor.

Step 5: Chill or Serve

• For the best flavor, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for about 15–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this Caprese Pasta Salad as a light main course or as a side dish to grilled chicken, seafood, or steak. It’s also perfect for:

• Picnics and barbecues
• Lunch meal prep boxes
• Brunch buffets or potlucks

Garnish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful finish.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality ingredients: The simplicity of this dish means every ingredient counts — especially olive oil, mozzarella, and tomatoes.
• Cool pasta before mixing: Prevents the mozzarella from melting and the basil from wilting.
• Add basil just before serving: Keeps it bright and fresh.
• For more protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.

Variations

• Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: Replace balsamic dressing with fresh basil pesto.
• Roasted Tomato Version: Roast the cherry tomatoes for a caramelized flavor twist.
• Caprese Orzo Salad: Use orzo instead of traditional pasta for a lighter feel.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan mozzarella and maple syrup in the dressing.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Add basil just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Freezer: Not recommended — mozzarella and tomatoes lose texture when frozen.

If storing, you can keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Colander
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk (for dressing)
• Serving spoon or salad tongs

Conclusion

This Caprese Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil is everything a perfect summer dish should be — colorful, refreshing, and bursting with authentic Italian flavors. It’s simple to make, beautifully balanced, and versatile enough to enjoy anytime.

Whether you’re serving it as a picnic favorite, a potluck showstopper, or a light dinner, it’s guaranteed to impress. Every bite tastes like sunshine — fresh, zesty, and deliciously satisfying.