Few dishes capture the taste of summer quite like Caprese Pasta Salad. Combining the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, this dish is a perfect balance of lightness and heartiness. Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, it’s a versatile salad that works as a side dish, a main course, or a potluck favorite.

Let’s dive into how you can create this simple yet stunning pasta salad step-by-step!

Ingredients for Caprese Pasta Salad

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this delightful dish.

For the Vinaigrette Dressing

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil	¼ cup
Balsamic vinegar	¼ cup
Fresh lemon juice	2–3 tablespoons
Garlic (minced)	1 clove
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Kosher salt	¼ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon

For the Pasta Salad

Ingredient	Amount
Dried pasta (farfalle or other small pasta)	½ pound
Mozzarella pearls (or cubed fresh mozzarella)	8 ounces
Grape tomatoes (halved)	2 cups
Fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced)	¼ cup
Salt and pepper	To taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: A few simple steps and minimal prep time make this recipe perfect for any skill level.
Bright and Fresh Flavors: The combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella with a tangy vinaigrette is a crowd-pleaser.
Versatile: Great as a side dish for barbecues, a quick lunch, or a light dinner.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for meal prep.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Caprese Pasta Salad

1. Prepare the Vinaigrette Dressing

In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Whisk or shake until all the ingredients are fully combined. Set the dressing aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

3. Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and thinly sliced fresh basil leaves.

4. Add the Dressing

Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette dressing over the pasta salad.
Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.

5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the salad and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips for the Best Caprese Pasta Salad

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella you can find for the best flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the salad and absorbs the dressing beautifully.
Toss Right Before Serving: If you’re making this salad ahead, wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Customize the Vinaigrette: Add a touch of honey or Dijon mustard for extra depth.
Serve Chilled: This salad tastes best when slightly chilled, making it perfect for summer gatherings.

Nutritional Information for Caprese Pasta Salad

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	~10g
Carbohydrates	~25g
Fat	~15g
Fiber	~2g

Serving Suggestions for Caprese Pasta Salad

As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood for a complete meal.
For Potlucks: Bring this colorful salad to your next gathering—it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Quick Lunch: Add some rotisserie chicken or chickpeas for a protein-packed meal.

Creative Variations

Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly option.
Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in arugula, cucumbers, or roasted red peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Cheese Swap: Use burrata or crumbled feta for a different twist.
Pesto Infusion: Mix a spoonful of pesto into the vinaigrette for a basil-forward variation.

FAQs About Caprese Pasta Salad

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the pasta and chop the ingredients in advance. Add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

2. How do I store leftovers?

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

3. Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work well as alternatives to farfalle.

4. What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?

Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.

5. Can I serve this warm?

While traditionally served cold, this salad can also be enjoyed warm. Simply skip rinsing the pasta with cold water and toss with the dressing while still warm.

6. Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes! Use vegan mozzarella or omit the cheese altogether for a vegan-friendly version.

Conclusion: Make This Caprese Pasta Salad Today!

Caprese Pasta Salad is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients, tangy vinaigrette, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or meal prepping for the week, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ready to bring a taste of Italy to your table? Gather your ingredients and start tossing—your next favorite salad is just a few steps away!