Print

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 14 reviews

This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish combining tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a make-ahead lunch, this salad bursts with classic Italian flavors in every creamy, refreshing bite.

Ingredients

Salad

  • 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
  • 16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls), halved
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season generously with kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse lightly with cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, drain the mozzarella balls and cut them in half. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and add both to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine Pasta and Salad Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the mozzarella and tomatoes. Toss in the thinly sliced fresh basil to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar with a lid, whisk or shake together the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
  5. Toss the Salad with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta salad. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Let It Marinate: For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving. Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 3 days.

Notes

  • Use small pasta shapes like fusilli, orecchiette, or penne for the best texture and to hold the dressing well.
  • To keep the salad fresh, dress it just before serving or keep the dressing separate and toss before serving if making in advance.
  • For a lighter version, substitute mozzarella balls with part-skim mozzarella.
  • This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
  • Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing can enhance brightness if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorspath.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/