This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is a colorful dish that combines tasty pasta, fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It’s all mixed together with a splash of olive oil!
Perfect for summer days or a quick weeknight meal, I love how light and refreshing it is! Pair it with your favorite bread, and you’ll have a delicious meal everyone will enjoy! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used orecchiette because its shape holds the dressing and tomatoes nicely. If you can’t find it, any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or penne works well.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini is my favorite for its bite-sized goodness. If you’re in a pinch, use cubed mozzarella or even feta for a tangy twist—just remember it’ll change the flavor a bit.
Cherry Tomatoes: A mix of colors adds visual appeal and flavor. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned diced tomatoes can work, but drain them before adding to avoid excess moisture.
Basil: Fresh basil gives this salad its distinctive flavor. If you can’t find fresh, consider using a pinch of dried basil, though the taste won’t be as bright.
How Do I Toss Everything Without Making a Mess?
Gently mixing the ingredients is key to keeping the salad intact. Here’s how:
- Start with the cooled pasta in a large bowl.
- Add the halved tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Sprinkly your garlic and herbs first, drizzling the olive oil and balsamic vinegar on top.
- Use two spoons to lift and fold the ingredients together, instead of stirring vigorously.
This way, your mozzarella won’t break apart and everything stays beautifully intact! Enjoy your colorful salad!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz orecchiette pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red, yellow, and orange if possible)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped, plus extra for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prepping and cooking, plus a little time to cool the pasta. It’s quick and simple—perfect for a light meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls. This is where all the colors and flavors will come together!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
Add the minced garlic and the chopped basil leaves to the bowl. Then, drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, the balsamic vinegar. The vinegar adds a nice tang, but it’s totally optional!
4. Toss It All Together:
Gently toss all the ingredients together. Be careful not to crush the mozzarella! You want everything mixed well and coated evenly.
5. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to add some seasoning! Sprinkle in salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a little kick. Toss gently again.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Transfer your beautiful salad to a serving bowl or plate. Garnish it with a few whole basil leaves for a touch of color. You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad!
FAQ for Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap the orecchiette for gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice or quinoa pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure it’s cooked properly.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil instead. A teaspoon or so should do, but keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so start with less and adjust according to your taste.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the pasta may absorb some dressing and get a little softer, so adding a splash of olive oil before serving can help refresh it!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad. Ingredients like diced cucumbers, olives, or roasted red peppers can add unique flavors and textures. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
