This colorful Caprese pasta salad is a fun mix of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil tossed with pasta. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for parties!
I love how the flavors come together in a light dressing. Plus, it looks beautiful on the table. Who knew pasta salad could be this fancy? 🍅🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is my favorite as its shape holds the dressing nicely. However, you can swap it for small pasta like shell, fusilli, or even penne. Just make sure it’s a bite-sized shape!
Cherry Tomatoes: A mix of red and yellow cherries adds color and sweetness. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work just as well or consider using diced regular tomatoes—just make sure they’re ripe for the best taste.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini gives a creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, try using cubed mozzarella or even crumbled feta, though the flavor will change a bit.
Basil: Fresh basil is essential for that Caprese flavor. If you can’t find it, substitute with fresh parsley or oregano, but know that it won’t match the distinct taste of basil.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness to the dressing. If you’re out of balsamic, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work. Just add a little sugar to balance the acidity.
How Do I Get My Pasta Salad to Have Balanced Flavors?
Balancing flavors is key in a good pasta salad. First, make sure you’re cooking the pasta properly—you want it al dente so it holds up in the salad. Once cooked, rinsing with cold water stops the cooking process and keeps it firm.
- Combine all fresh ingredients in a bowl and save the dressing for later.
- Mix olive oil and balsamic vinegar with salt and pepper to taste. Always start with less salt; you can add more later!
- If you want a kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes to the dressing before mixing.
- Let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes! This helps the ingredients blend and the flavors come out.
With these tips, your pasta salad will be bursting with flavor and just the right amount of zest! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Best Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz orecchiette pasta or any small pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow preferred)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caprese Pasta Salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes to cook the pasta and assemble the salad, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld together. It’s a great dish that’s quick and easy to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to help cool it down. This keeps the pasta from getting mushy in your salad.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Gently toss everything together so that the ingredients are nicely mixed.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes! Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad. Toss gently to make sure every ingredient is coated in the yummy dressing. Be careful not to squish the mozzarella balls!
5. Let It Sit:
Let the salad sit for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This waiting time helps all the wonderful flavors blend together, making it extra tasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the salad has had time to meld, it’s ready to serve! You can enjoy it at room temperature or chill it in the fridge for a bit. If you want, garnish with additional basil leaves for a fresh touch. Dig in and enjoy your refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute orecchiette with any small pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it’s cooked al dente.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the fresh mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives or omit it altogether. You might also try adding more avocado for creaminess instead!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh, simply give it a good stir before serving, and you may want to add a splash more olive oil or balsamic vinegar to revive the flavors!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, olives, or even grilled chicken for added protein. Just keep in mind to maintain a good balance with the dressing to keep it flavorful!
