Caprese Pasta Salad

The moment I think of summer, the image of a vibrant and refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad comes to mind. It’s a dish that evokes memories of sunny afternoons spent with friends and family, where laughter fills the air and the aroma of fresh ingredients dances about. I remember the first time I made this delightful salad; it was a casual get-together, and I wanted something quick yet impressive. As I tossed together the fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, I was captivated by the colors and scents. It felt like summer on a plate!

Ingredients Overview for Caprese Pasta Salad

In crafting the perfect Caprese Pasta Salad, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role. Each component complements the others, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The star ingredients—dried pasta, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh vegetables—not only enhance the taste but also contribute to a colorful presentation on your table.

• Dried pasta: 1 pound (450g) – I used fusilli bucati, but any short shape works great. The pasta acts as the base of the salad, providing a satisfying chewiness.
• Extra virgin olive oil: ¼ cup (60ml) – This adds richness and depth of flavor to the dressings, enhancing the overall taste of the salad.
• Balsamic vinegar: ¼ cup (60ml) – A key player in providing acidity and sweetness, it perfectly balances the creaminess of the mozzarella.
• Garlic: 2 small cloves, minced or grated – This adds a pungent kick to the dressing, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional) – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this optional ingredient can add a lovely spiciness.
• Ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon – A pinch of freshly ground black pepper elevates the flavors.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon – Essential for enhancing the taste of every ingredient.
• Cherry tomatoes: 3 cups, halved – Their sweetness and vibrant color make them a showstopper in this salad.
• Red onion: ¼, diced – Adds a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness to the mix.
• Mozzarella pearls: 8 ounces (226g) – These creamy bites are the heart of the dish, providing that classic Caprese flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves: ¼ cup, chopped – The aromatic herb that brings this salad to life with fresh flavor.

Step by Step Instructions for Caprese Pasta Salad

Making a Caprese Pasta Salad is a straightforward process that anyone can master. You’ll find that as you follow the steps, the delightful aromas will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. Just take it slow and enjoy each part of the process!

1. Start by cooking the dried pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture, which usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. You want the pasta to be tender yet slightly firm when you bite into it.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial to avoid overcooking and ensures the pasta maintains its texture.
3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing. In a large salad bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add the minced or grated garlic, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, black pepper, and salt to taste. Whisk everything together until well combined.
4. Once the pasta has cooled slightly, transfer it to the bowl with the dressing. Toss it well to ensure each piece is coated beautifully. The dressing will soak into the pasta, enhancing every bite.
5. Add in the cherry tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil leaves. Gently stir everything together, being careful not to break the mozzarella pearls. You want the ingredients to stay intact for a lovely presentation.
6. Now it’s time to taste your creation! Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar according to your preference. The balance of flavors is key!
7. For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good stir again. If it looks a little dry, drizzle with a bit more extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. This will freshen it up perfectly.
9. Lastly, serve the Caprese Pasta Salad in a large bowl, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!

Substitutions and Tips

Whether you’re looking to customize your Caprese Pasta Salad or just want some handy tips, I’ve got you covered! Here are some suggestions to enhance your dish:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a good stir and add a drizzle of olive oil before serving again.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad. However, the texture might change, especially for the tomatoes and cheese.
• Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it an excellent side for a summer barbecue.
• Variations: Feel free to add ingredients like olives, artichokes, or even diced avocado for a twist on the classic.
• Make it Vegan: Omit the mozzarella or substitute it with a vegan cheese option to create a delicious vegan version.

Perfect Matches for Caprese Pasta Salad

When it comes to serving your Caprese Pasta Salad, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• As a Side Dish: This salad is perfect alongside grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread during summer gatherings.
• Picnics and Potlucks: It’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for outdoor events.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own for a refreshing and satisfying lunch option.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, pair it with lighter proteins like fish or chicken, while in fall, consider serving it with roasted vegetables.
• Storage Tips: If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve to keep the pasta from getting soggy.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, the Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, inviting everyone to enjoy its vibrant colors and flavors. I encourage you to try making it; once you do, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Caprese Pasta Salad

The ultimate summer dish, Caprese Pasta Salad combines fresh ingredients for a vibrant and delicious meal. Easy to make and perfect for gatherings, this salad will have everyone coming back for more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Salads, Side Dishes

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Dried pasta I used fusilli bucati but any short shape works.
• ¼ cup Extra virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup Balsamic vinegar
• 2 small cloves Garlic minced or grated
• ¼ teaspoon Red pepper flakes optional
• ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Salt
• 3 cups Cherry tomatoes halved
• ¼ red onion Diced red onion
• 8 ounces Mozzarella pearls
• ¼ cup Fresh basil leaves chopped

Equipment

• Large Salad Bowl

Method

 

1. Cook dried pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until blended.
3. Add the drained pasta to the bowl and toss with the dressing until well coated.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil leaves. Mix gently to combine.
5. Adjust seasonings to taste and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Before serving, drizzle with more olive oil and balsamic vinegar if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• Don’t overcook the pasta! You want the pasta to be fully cooked, but still a bit al dente when you bite into a piece.
• Let the pasta cool: If the pasta is still warm when you add the rest of the ingredients, your cheese might melt and your dressing could soak in too quickly.
• Chill: The salad is ready to eat as soon as it’s mixed up, but letting it chill in the fridge for an hour or more can enhance the flavor and texture.
• Storing/Make Ahead: This salad can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it seems dry after storing, drizzle with olive oil and a bit of balsamic to freshen it up.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!