Caprese Pasta with Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Basil

Caprese Pasta is a delightful Italian-inspired dish that brings together vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, silky olive oil, and creamy mozzarella pearls—all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Inspired by the classic Caprese salad, this dish transforms a simple pasta meal into something elegant, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. It’s light yet flavorful, fresh yet indulgent, making it an excellent choice for both weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining.

This recipe celebrates simplicity—every ingredient shines, yet when combined, they create a harmony of texture and taste that feels deeply comforting and delicious. Whether you love Italian cuisine or simply want a wholesome meal using fresh, simple ingredients, Caprese Pasta is the perfect answer.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Caprese Pasta because it’s:

• Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
• Fresh and vibrant — every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile — works as a side dish or a main dish.
• Comforting yet light — not too heavy, not too plain.

It’s a dish that feels both homemade and restaurant-worthy at the same time.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You should absolutely try this recipe because:

• It uses minimal ingredients with maximum flavor.
• It is family-friendly and customizable.
• It’s perfect for summer months, but comforting enough for any season.
• It’s a great option for meal prep, picnics, and lunch boxes.

One taste, and you’ll understand why this combination is loved worldwide.

Preparation & Culinary Details

Feature	Details
Preparation Time	10 minutes
Cooking Time	12–15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes
Servings	4 servings
Calories	Approximately 410 calories per serving
Course	Main Dish / Pasta
Cuisine	Italian / Italian-American Fusion

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, farfalle, spaghetti, or fusilli)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (for boiling water)

For the Caprese Mix:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn (not chopped)

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Toss cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large bowl.
4. Whisk dressing ingredients together until well blended.
5. Pour dressing over pasta and mix gently.
6. Serve warm or chilled.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Boil salted water.
• Add pasta and cook al dente (firm but tender).
• Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice tomatoes and mozzarella.
• Tear basil leaves (do not chop; chopping bruises them).

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• In a mixing bowl, gently fold pasta with tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
• Add dressing and coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Serve

Serve this pasta:

• At room temperature, which enhances the flavors.
• With a side of garlic bread, grilled chicken, or white wine.
• As a picnic salad, summer meal, or a refreshing dinner option.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pasta pot
• Strainer
• Sharp knife
• Serving bowl
• Whisk

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh mozzarella only—not shredded cheese.
• Add basil just before serving for best flavor.
• Allow pasta to cool slightly before adding cheese to avoid melting.

Variations

Variation	Details
Pesto Caprese Pasta	Swap dressing for 3–4 tbsp basil pesto.
Protein Version	Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or prosciutto.
Roasted Tomato Version	Roast tomatoes with olive oil & garlic first.
Gluten-Free Version	Use gluten-free pasta.
Creamy Version	Add ¼ cup heavy cream or ricotta to dressing.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers for up to 2–3 days in an airtight container.
• Do Not Freeze: Fresh mozzarella and basil do not thaw well.

FAQ

Q1: Can I serve this cold?
Yes—this makes an excellent cold pasta salad.

Q2: Can I use dried basil?
Fresh basil is recommended, but in winter, dried basil can be used lightly.

Q3: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—cucumber, roasted peppers, or spinach pair well.

Conclusion

Caprese Pasta with Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Basil is a beautiful celebration of simplicity, freshness, and bold Mediterranean flavors. With minimal effort and wholesome ingredients, this dish transforms into something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite—each bite fresh, creamy, and unforgettable.