Name: Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-491181H7M37S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowtie, or penne); 1 1/2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze; 1 clove garlic, minced (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad, blending juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with perfectly cooked pasta and a zesty balsamic dressing. It’s the kind of dish I love to make when I want something light, simple, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this pasta salad captures all the bright flavors of a Caprese salad in a heartier form that’s still refreshing. It’s easy to prepare, looks beautiful on the table, and tastes even better as it sits. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or a light main, it’s always a crowd-pleaser and one of the first dishes to disappear. Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta (like rotini, bowtie, or penne)
Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
Fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
Olive oil
Balsamic vinegar or glaze
Garlic, minced (optional)
Salt and pepper
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Directions

I cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
While the pasta cools, I prep the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
In a large bowl, I toss the cooled pasta with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic (if using).
I add in the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, and gently mix everything together until well combined.
I season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a bit of spice.
I chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors come together.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Prep time takes 20 minutes, and chilling is optional but recommended (30 minutes). Total time is around 25–50 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add sliced avocado or grilled chicken to turn it into a full meal. I’ve also tossed in arugula or spinach for a bit of green and used sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang. When I want a creamier version, I add a dollop of pesto or a spoonful of mayo to the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

I store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, but I sometimes add a splash of olive oil or balsamic before serving if it needs freshening up. I don’t reheat this—it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, I actually prefer making it a few hours in advance. It gives the flavors time to soak into the pasta.

What type of pasta works best?

I usually use short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne. They hold the dressing well and are easy to eat in a salad.

Do I need to use fresh mozzarella?

Fresh mozzarella gives the best texture and flavor. I like using the small mozzarella balls, but I’ve also cut a block into cubes when that’s what I have.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Definitely. I drizzle it over the finished salad for a touch of sweetness and bold flavor. It makes it look extra nice, too.

How do I keep the basil from wilting?

I add the basil just before serving if I’m making it ahead. That way, it stays fresh and vibrant.

Conclusion

Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad is one of my go-to recipes when I want something light, colorful, and full of fresh flavor. It’s easy to throw together, endlessly customizable, and perfect for warm-weather meals or year-round potlucks. Every bite is bursting with that classic combo of tomato, mozzarella, and basil—made even better with pasta.