Go Back
caprese pasta salad featured

Easy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

This fresh and flavorful caprese pasta salad combines cherry tomatoes, mozzarella and basil with a simple white balsamic dressing for the perfect summer side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Grain & Pasta Salads
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 359

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound short pasta (fusilli, orrechiette, or penne)
  • 16 ounces mozzarella balls (ciligiine or pearls), drained and halved
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup fresh basil, slivered
  • cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 garlic clove, pressed or minced

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small bowl or mason jar for dressing

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, rinse lightly with cold water, and set aside to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine halved mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes.
  3. Add cooled pasta and slivered basil to the bowl.
  4. In a small bowl or mason jar, mix olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
  6. Let salad rest for about 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • For make-ahead preparation, consider storing components separately and combining shortly before serving.
  • Refresh with additional olive oil if the salad seems dry after refrigeration.
  • Customize with add-ins like grilled chicken, pine nuts, or additional vegetables.