Caprese Pasta Salad

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Caprese Pasta Salad is one of those dishes I come back to again and again when I need something fast, fresh, and undeniably delicious. It combines the elegance of a Caprese salad—ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil—with the satisfying heartiness of pasta. This is the kind of meal that can be served as a light dinner, packed for a picnic, or whipped up for last-minute guests. I love how the flavors come together with a simple balsamic glaze and olive oil dressing that makes everything pop.

What really makes this recipe a winner in my kitchen is its balance. The juicy tomatoes burst with sweetness, the mozzarella adds a creamy bite, and the basil gives that herbaceous lift that keeps each forkful interesting. It’s summer in a bowl, but honestly, I crave it year-round. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors or just looking for a new easy dinner idea, this Caprese Pasta Salad has a spot on your table.

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Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad

• It’s Quick & Easy – From start to finish, you’re looking at under 20 minutes.
• No-Fuss Ingredients – Simple pantry staples and fresh produce shine here.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy it chilled all week.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Everyone loves the combo of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
• Versatile – Serve it as a main, side dish, or even a picnic-ready lunch.
• Vibrant & Fresh – A feast for the eyes and the palate.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Caprese Pasta Salad?

When it comes to choosing pasta for this salad, I always reach for farfalle (bowtie pasta) because it holds the ingredients so beautifully and gives every bite a little bit of everything. The ridges and curves trap the dressing, making each forkful flavorful. But you’re not locked in—penne, rotini, or fusilli are great alternatives. Just aim for a short pasta shape that’s sturdy enough to hold its own next to the juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.

The key is to cook the pasta al dente. You want it tender but firm enough to hold up in the salad without turning mushy, especially if you’re planning to serve it chilled later or store leftovers.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re out of an ingredient or just want to switch things up, this salad is incredibly flexible:

• Mozzarella Balls: If you can’t find the small bocconcini or ciliegine, just dice a fresh mozzarella log or even use burrata for a creamier twist.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes are a perfect swap. Even heirloom or vine tomatoes, chopped, will work if that’s what you have.
• Fresh Basil: In a pinch, try a drizzle of basil pesto for flavor—just reduce the olive oil to balance it out.
• Pasta Alternatives: Want to go gluten-free? Use your favorite GF pasta brand. Want it lighter? Try whole wheat pasta.
• Dressing Twist: Balsamic glaze adds depth, but you can also go for a red wine vinaigrette or even lemon juice and olive oil for something brighter.
• Add-ins: Toss in grilled chicken, olives, or avocado for extra protein and flavor. It’s easy to customize.

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Ingredients for This Caprese Pasta Salad

• Farfalle Pasta (Bowtie Pasta): This acts as the hearty base of the salad, soaking up the dressing while adding texture and substance.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and colorful, they bring freshness and brightness to every bite.
• Mozzarella Balls (Ciliegine or Bocconcini): Creamy and mild, they balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the tang of the balsamic.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Torn or chopped, basil delivers that unmistakable herbaceous aroma and flavor that defines a Caprese.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Helps coat the pasta and ingredients, tying everything together with richness.
• Balsamic Glaze: A touch of sweetness and tang that gives this dish its signature zing.
• Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the full flavor of each ingredient.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): Adds a pop of green and extra freshness, especially if you want a little more herbal depth.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.

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Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

While the pasta is cooking, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and drain the mozzarella balls if needed. Roughly chop or tear the basil leaves, and if you’re using parsley, chop that as well.

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Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and parsley (if using). Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

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Step 4: Finish with Balsamic Glaze

Just before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad. Give it a gentle toss to coat all the ingredients evenly, being careful not to mash the mozzarella or tomatoes.

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Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary—more salt, pepper, or even an extra drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze depending on your preference.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately at room temperature or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes if you prefer it cold. Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh finish.

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How Long to Cook the Caprese Pasta Salad

The actual cooking time is minimal—just long enough to boil the pasta, typically about 10–12 minutes depending on the brand. The rest of the recipe is assembly and doesn’t require any additional cooking. From start to finish, you can have this Caprese Pasta Salad ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or last-minute potluck dishes.

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Tips for Perfect Caprese Pasta Salad

• Salt the Pasta Water Generously: This is your only chance to season the pasta itself—don’t skip it.
• Cool the Pasta Completely: Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking and prevents it from sticking.
• Use the Freshest Ingredients: Fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and soft mozzarella are what make this salad shine.
• Add Balsamic Glaze Last: This keeps it from getting lost at the bottom of the bowl and ensures it coats everything beautifully.
• Toss Gently: Especially with soft mozzarella and tomatoes, a light hand helps keep everything intact.
• Let It Marinate (Optional): Letting the salad sit for 30 minutes in the fridge helps the flavors meld beautifully.
• Double for a Crowd: This recipe scales easily—just taste as you go with the seasoning.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta ruins the texture of this salad. Cook it just to al dente so it holds up after cooling and tossing.
• Using Wet Mozzarella Balls: Excess moisture can water down the salad. Pat the mozzarella dry with a paper towel before mixing.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Even simple ingredients need a flavor boost. Don’t forget to salt the pasta water and the salad itself.
• Adding Balsamic Too Early: If you add the glaze too soon, it can sink and clump. Always finish with it right before serving.
• Using Dull Tomatoes or Wilted Basil: Fresh produce is key—sad tomatoes or limp basil will drag the whole salad down.
• Skipping the Chill Time (If Serving Cold): Give it at least 15–30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors come together.

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What to Serve With Caprese Pasta Salad?

Grilled Chicken Breast

A lean protein like grilled chicken complements the salad without overpowering it—ideal for a balanced lunch or light dinner.

Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread makes a great pairing. Dip it in the leftover dressing and balsamic glaze—it’s irresistible.

Lemon-Herb Shrimp

Toss a few sautéed shrimp on top or serve on the side for a coastal Mediterranean vibe.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon

This sweet-and-savory combo adds a fun and elegant twist to your plate. Great for parties or brunches.

Arugula Salad

If you’re going full veggie, a peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the mild flavors of the pasta.

Sparkling Water with Citrus

Serve chilled citrus-infused sparkling water or lemonade to keep the meal fresh and vibrant.

Roasted Vegetables

A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion adds warmth and color to the meal.

Crusty Ciabatta or Focaccia

A slice of good bread is never out of place here—especially when drizzled with olive oil and sea salt.

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Storage Instructions

Caprese Pasta Salad stores very well, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh tomatoes and mozzarella, which don’t thaw well.
• Refreshing Leftovers: If the pasta dries out a bit in the fridge, revive it with a drizzle of olive oil and an extra splash of balsamic glaze before serving.
• Add Basil Fresh: If making ahead, wait to add fresh basil until just before serving to avoid wilting or browning.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per 1 serving (based on 6 servings total):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 250mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the exact brands and quantities used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to keep the basil from turning brown?

Add the basil just before serving and avoid chopping it too finely—tearing it by hand helps it stay fresh and green longer.

Can I make Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s a great make-ahead dish. Just store it in the fridge and add fresh basil and balsamic glaze right before serving.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

You can use a simple balsamic vinaigrette or mix balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey or maple syrup to mimic the glaze.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pasta of your choice.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, chickpeas, tuna, or even shrimp work great to make it heartier.

How do I keep the pasta from sticking together?

After cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

What kind of mozzarella should I buy?

Look for fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini). If unavailable, you can cut a mozzarella log into bite-sized pieces.

Can I serve it warm instead of chilled?

Yes! This salad is delicious both warm and cold. Just skip rinsing the pasta if you want to enjoy it warm right after mixing.

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Conclusion

Caprese Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to pull together. It’s fresh, flavorful, and flexible enough to fit almost any occasion—from weeknight dinners to summer parties. I love how every bite delivers a burst of tomato, creamy mozzarella, and that fresh basil magic. If you’re looking for a reliable go-to pasta salad that always impresses and never bores, this one checks all the boxes. Go ahead and bookmark it—you’ll be making it more than once.

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