This Caprese Pasta Salad mixes tasty pasta with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s like a summer picnic in a bowl!
What I love about this salad is how quick it is to make. Toss everything together, and you have a colorful dish that always gets smiles—perfect for any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: This pasta is great for holding onto the dressing and ingredients. If you can’t find it, any small pasta like fusilli or rotini can work well, too. I often opt for whole grain pasta for added fiber!
Cherry Tomatoes: Freshness is key! For a colorful salad, combine different types like yellow, red, and even orange. If out of season, substitute with sun-dried tomatoes or a few slices of larger tomatoes. They add a different but yummy flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of bocconcini or ciliegine makes this dish special. If you want a vegan twist, opt for tofu or vegan mozzarella. I usually use mozzarella for that creamy texture, but any cheese you like can work!
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a fresh taste that brightens the salad. If you can’t find fresh basil, try a sprinkle of dried basil or a different herb like parsley or arugula for a nice alternative.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a tangy kick. You can swap it with red wine vinegar or lemon juice if you prefer something lighter. I’ve mixed in a bit of honey for sweetness, and it’s delightful!
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Pasta for This Salad?
Cooking pasta to the right texture is essential, especially since it needs to hold up in a salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add your orecchiette and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Check the package for specific times.
- Once it’s cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps it from getting mushy.
I always taste a piece before draining to ensure it’s just right! Perfectly cooked pasta adds the ideal bite to the salad.
Best Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if possible)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caprese Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be enjoyed immediately, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors blend perfectly. A quick and refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will keep it from getting mushy.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Give everything a gentle stir to mix them together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until it’s well combined. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together, so make sure it’s mixed nicely.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently to ensure that all the lovely ingredients are coated evenly. Don’t be too rough; you want to keep those mozzarella balls whole!
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even some red pepper flakes if you like a kick! Adjust to your liking.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now your delicious Caprese Pasta Salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it right away, or for even better flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy this refreshing dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to cook according to the package instructions for the best texture!
How Do I Store Leftover Caprese Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious when you eat it the next day. Just give it a good stir before serving!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add in ingredients like diced cucumbers, olives, or even roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture. Just keep the ratios in mind so it doesn’t overwhelm the pasta!
How Can I Make This Salad More Filling?
If you want to make this salad heartier, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even cooked shrimp. These additions will boost the protein content and turn it into a complete meal!
