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Caprese Pasta Salad brings the vibrant, fresh flavors of classic Italian caprese to your summer table in pasta form. Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil are tossed with tender pasta and dressed in a light, tangy olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect crowd-pleasing dish for BBQs, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner. With minimal cooking and bright, seasonal ingredients, it’s a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a taste of Italy—no stove stress required.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 lb small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
16 oz mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls), halved
3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
1 tsp kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 clove garlic, minced

Directions

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package directions.
Drain and rinse lightly with cold water. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep Tomatoes & Mozzarella

Halve cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
Place in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Salad

Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with tomatoes and mozzarella.
Add the sliced basil and gently toss.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Let sit for 15–30 minutes at room temperature before serving.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

Nutrients (approximate for full recipe)

Calories: 2000–2200
Protein: 60–70g
Fat: 150–160g
Carbohydrates: 180–200g

Why Caprese Pasta Salad Works So Well

This pasta salad succeeds because it respects its roots. Caprese is all about the quality of ingredients, and this version honors that with a balance of textures and flavors. The al dente pasta provides a satisfying chew and structure that supports the delicate mozzarella balls and juicy cherry tomatoes. Fresh basil introduces a burst of herby brightness, while a garlicky olive oil and balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with a slightly tangy, zesty finish.

The result is a dish that’s creamy without being heavy, rich without being overpowering, and complex without being complicated. It satisfies comfort food cravings while still feeling light, thanks to its fresh produce and olive oil-based dressing.

Quick, Easy, and Make-Ahead Friendly

One of the key reasons Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a go-to for home cooks is its effortless prep. It comes together in about 20 minutes and doesn’t require turning on the oven or babysitting anything on the stove beyond the pasta. It’s as simple as boil, chop, whisk, and toss.

Better yet, the flavors improve as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep, picnics, and gatherings. You can assemble it hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. This convenience, paired with its striking presentation and universally loved flavors, makes it a go-to for feeding a crowd.

A Mediterranean Flavor Explosion

Every element of this dish speaks to the Mediterranean way of eating: vibrant, fresh, and wholesome.

Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness and acidity that brightens the dish.
Mozzarella pearls offer a creamy, cool contrast that balances the tang of the vinaigrette.
Fresh basil brings aromatic freshness that ties in the iconic caprese theme.
Olive oil and white balsamic form a light yet flavorful dressing that clings beautifully to the pasta and infuses the salad with depth.

Garlic and black pepper lend a savory kick, while a generous pinch of kosher salt sharpens every bite.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re heading to a summer BBQ, prepping lunches for the week, or whipping up a no-stress dinner, this salad fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to be served as a main dish, especially when paired with grilled chicken or crusty bread, but it also holds its own as a side for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian mains.

It’s especially ideal for outdoor events and gatherings because it tastes just as delicious at room temperature as it does chilled. It travels well, holds its texture, and appeals to both picky eaters and food lovers alike.

Customizable and Diet-Friendly

While the base recipe is perfection on its own, Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is easy to adapt based on your preferences or dietary needs. Try these customizations:

Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta without sacrificing flavor.
Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, chickpeas, or cubed salami for extra staying power.
Use whole wheat pasta or high-protein pasta for a more nutritious spin.
Add greens: Arugula, spinach, or kale can be folded in for added color and nutrients.
Try flavored mozzarella or marinated bocconcini for added depth.

This flexibility ensures you can keep the core Mediterranean spirit of the dish while adapting it to fit any mealtime scenario or guest list.

Light, Creamy, and Balanced Nutrition

Despite its luxurious flavor and creamy mozzarella, this salad is surprisingly balanced. The olive oil-based dressing contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, while the fresh vegetables offer antioxidants and fiber. Mozzarella adds calcium and protein, and the pasta provides satisfying carbohydrates for energy.

The full recipe yields approximately 2000–2200 calories total, with about 60–70 grams of protein and a fairly even split between carbs and fats. When divided into six servings, it provides a hearty meal with around 350–400 calories per serving—just enough for a light lunch or a robust side.

You can lighten it even further by reducing the amount of cheese or using a lighter pasta such as whole wheat or chickpea-based options. And because the dressing doesn’t use any cream or mayonnaise, it’s naturally dairy-light and egg-free.

Pairing Ideas and Serving Suggestions

While Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes enhances the experience:

With grilled meats: Try balsamic chicken, rosemary lamb skewers, or Italian sausages.
With bread: Serve with a warm baguette, garlic bread, or focaccia for mopping up dressing.
As a picnic spread: Pair with fruit salad, lemonade, and baked goods for an outdoor feast.
With wine: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the acidity and herbs perfectly.

Top each serving with a bit more fresh basil, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or cracked pepper for an elegant touch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and are just as flavorful the next day—making them ideal for meal prep.

Tips for the Best Caprese Pasta Salad

To get the most flavor and texture from your salad:

Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy as it absorbs the dressing.
Rinse the pasta lightly with cold water after draining to stop the cooking and cool it down quickly.
Use fresh, ripe tomatoes—they make all the difference in flavor.
Tear the basil rather than chopping to release its oils without bruising.
Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors mingle.

These small but significant steps ensure the final result is bright, balanced, and bursting with Italian charm.

Conclusion

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad brings together the classic caprese flavors you love—juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil—with the heartiness of pasta and the zesty tang of homemade vinaigrette. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners, elegant enough for entertaining, and flexible enough to fit a wide range of diets and occasions. With every forkful offering the perfect balance of freshness and richness, this pasta salad proves that simple ingredients, when combined with care, can yield truly spectacular results. It’s everything summer food should be: colorful, flavorful, and wonderfully fuss-free.

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