Caprese Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Basil is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad. This pasta salad combines al dente pasta with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant fresh basil, all tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a perfect blend of textures and tastes—sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet elegant, easy to prepare, and bursting with fresh flavors. It’s versatile, making it suitable for summer picnics, family gatherings, potlucks, or a quick lunch at home. This pasta salad is both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the essence of fresh Italian flavors in a simple, easy-to-make dish. The combination of sweet cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and aromatic basil is refreshing and light. The balsamic vinaigrette adds a subtle tang that perfectly complements the ingredients.

This pasta salad is also highly versatile. You can prepare it ahead of time, adjust ingredients based on availability, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. It’s a dish that always feels bright, healthy, and satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Caprese Pasta Salad is a must-try because it’s a delightful and effortless way to enjoy classic Italian flavors. It’s visually stunning with its red, white, and green color palette and has a well-balanced taste that appeals to everyone.

This salad is perfect for warm-weather meals, but it works year-round. The freshness of the ingredients, combined with the light vinaigrette, makes it a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings or a quick, nutritious weeknight meal.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Course: Salad or Side Dish
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 oz pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 ½ cups mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add minced garlic if desired.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions.
3. Drain pasta and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients

1. Halve cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
2. Tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces.
3. Optional: slice red onion or olives if using.

Step 3: Make Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Add minced garlic or Italian seasoning if desired.

Step 4: Assemble Salad

1. Combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large bowl.
2. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve chilled or at room temperature.
• Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches.
• Can be plated individually or in a large serving bowl for gatherings.
• Garnish with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella and basil for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook pasta; al dente texture holds well in the salad.
• Adjust the amount of olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.
• Toss gently to avoid crushing the mozzarella or tomatoes.
• For added texture, include toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.

Variations

• Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad: Add grilled chicken slices for protein.
• Mediterranean Twist: Include black olives, roasted red peppers, and artichoke hearts.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mozzarella alternatives.
• Pesto Dressing: Substitute balsamic vinaigrette with homemade pesto for a richer flavor.
• Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for creaminess and extra nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as fresh mozzarella and basil lose texture and flavor.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for dressing
• Whisk or fork for mixing
• Cutting board and knife

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Add fresh basil just before serving for best flavor.

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, fusilli, penne, rotini, or farfalle all work well.

Can I omit mozzarella?
Yes, though it is a key component. Substitute with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.

How can I make the salad more flavorful?
Add garlic, red onion, olives, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Is this salad suitable for picnics?
Yes, but keep chilled until serving. Pack dressing separately to prevent soggy pasta.

Conclusion

Caprese Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Basil is a fresh, colorful, and flavorful dish that embodies the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine. Quick to prepare yet visually stunning, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, potlucks, or summer gatherings. Its combination of tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil makes it a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, light, and delicious meals.