Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Name: Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound small pasta (fusilli, orecchiette, or penne); 16 ounces mozzarella balls; 3 cups cherry tomatoes; 1/2 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 clove garlic, minced

Recipe By:

Dahlia

Posted:

July 9, 2025

Updated:

July 9, 2025

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Pasta salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients, making it perfect for summer gatherings and picnics. This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavor from the mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light main course, and impress your guests with its vibrant colors and creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty salad in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil creates a delightful taste.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues, a picnic favorite, or even as a light lunch option.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and satisfying.
Make Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance, making it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad, gather the essential tools that will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
Colander: Helps drain cooked pasta efficiently while keeping it intact.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining all the salad ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
16 ounces mozzarella balls (such as ciliegine or pearls)
3 cups cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil

For the Dressing

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 23 minutes

How to Make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
Add the small pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Usually, this takes about 8 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and sliced basil.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Serve

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled or at room temperature for best results.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a picnic, a family gathering, or a quick weeknight dinner, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

Perfect for lunch on its own, this pasta salad is light yet filling.

With Grilled Chicken

Pair it with grilled chicken breast for added protein and flavor. The warmth of the chicken complements the coolness of the salad.

In Lettuce Wraps

Scoop the pasta salad into large lettuce leaves for a refreshing twist. This makes for a fun and healthy appetizer.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside your favorite main course, such as roasted vegetables or grilled fish. It adds color and richness to any plate.

Topped with Extra Basil

Garnish with more fresh basil just before serving. This enhances the aroma and freshness of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

To make your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes elevate the flavors significantly.
Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Adjust seasoning: Taste your salad and add more salt or pepper as needed. This ensures every bite is delicious.
Add nuts for crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch.
Experiment with herbs: Try adding oregano or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance. It keeps well in the fridge without losing its texture.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here’s a list of great options:

Grilled Vegetables
Perfectly charred zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky taste that balances well with the salad.
Roasted Chicken Thighs
Juicy chicken thighs seasoned simply can provide heartiness while keeping the meal light.
Garlic Bread
Warm garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and provides an excellent contrast to the creamy pasta.
Caprese Skewers
Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil on skewers create an easy-to-eat side that’s visually appealing.
Mixed Green Salad
A simple mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette offers crunch and freshness alongside your pasta salad.
Stuffed Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer nutritious benefits while being filling and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pasta salads can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

Using overcooked pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste for al dente texture.
Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the pasta water can lead to bland flavors. Add kosher salt to the boiling water before adding pasta for better taste.
Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old basil and tomatoes will affect freshness. Always choose vibrant, fresh produce for the best flavor.
Overdressing: Adding too much olive oil or vinegar can make the salad greasy. Start with less dressing and add more if needed after mixing.
Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately without chilling can prevent flavors from melding. Allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and cheese.

Reheating Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad.

What is Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad?

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing mix of pasta, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil dressed in olive oil and vinegar. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Can I customize Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad?

Yes! You can add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.

How do I make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad vegan?

For a vegan version, replace mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives and ensure any dressings are dairy-free.

How long does Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or leftovers. Try this recipe at your next gathering and impress your friends with its easy preparation and fresh flavors!