Caprese Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Summer Classic

Every summer, I find myself craving something light, simple, and refreshing—and nothing fits the bill quite like a bowl of Caprese pasta salad. There’s something nostalgic about the mix of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil that instantly transports me to sunlit backyard lunches and weekend picnics. It’s a dish I’ve made dozens of times, tweaking it until I found the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

If you’re looking for a vibrant, make-ahead side or a satisfying vegetarian main, this Caprese pasta salad is a no-brainer. It’s everything we love about the classic Caprese salad, made more hearty with al dente pasta and drizzled in a tangy balsamic glaze. And yes, it tastes even better the next day.

What Is Caprese Pasta Salad?

Caprese pasta salad is a pasta-based interpretation of the traditional Italian Caprese salad—an iconic trio of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Named after the island of Capri, this combination is all about simplicity and bright, fresh ingredients. When translated into a pasta salad, those core components are tossed with cooked pasta and typically finished with a vinaigrette or balsamic reduction.

The result? A cool, creamy, herbaceous salad that’s just as appropriate for a Fourth of July potluck as it is for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad

This isn’t your average deli-style pasta salad drowning in mayo. Here’s what makes it a standout:

• Fresh and light: Perfect for warm-weather meals
• Minimal ingredients: Just a few high-quality items make the flavor shine
• Fast prep: Done in under 30 minutes
• Customizable: Add-ins like grilled chicken or arugula elevate it
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better after chilling

It also travels well, making it ideal for gatherings, lunchboxes, or meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into making the perfect Caprese pasta salad:

You can find fresh mozzarella and a good olive oil at most grocery stores or order them from major retailers like Amazon.

How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step)

Making Caprese pasta salad is easy. Here’s how to do it:

Cook the Pasta

• Boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta until just al dente
• Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking

Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice the cherry tomatoes
• Tear or chiffonade the basil leaves
• Drain the mozzarella balls

Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or glaze)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Combine and Chill

• Toss everything together in a large bowl
• Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving, if desired

Best Pasta Types for Caprese Salad

Choosing the right pasta can make or break your salad. Here are the best types for this recipe:

• Rotini: Twists hold the dressing beautifully
• Penne: Firm and easy to eat cold
• Farfalle: Fun shape and good surface area
• Orecchiette: Holds chunks of tomato and cheese well

Avoid long noodles or delicate pastas—they don’t hold up as well when mixed and chilled.

The Perfect Dressing for Caprese Pasta Salad

While some recipes skip dressing altogether, adding a light vinaigrette elevates this salad. You can make your own or use a store-bought balsamic glaze.

DIY Caprese Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white balsamic or apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Shake in a mason jar for a quick, emulsified finish. A drizzle of glaze on top adds that signature sweet tang.

Tips for the Best Caprese Pasta Salad

To make this salad truly shine, keep these tips in mind:

• Salt your pasta water: It’s your only chance to flavor the pasta
• Cool pasta completely: Hot pasta will melt the cheese
• Add basil just before serving: Keeps it from wilting
• Use high-quality ingredients, especially the mozzarella and olive oil
• Let it sit: Chilling for at least 30 minutes improves flavor

Easy Add-Ins and Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Try adding any of the following:

• Grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken
• Avocado chunks for creaminess
• Arugula or baby spinach for a peppery bite
• Kalamata olives for a salty contrast
• Pesto in place of vinaigrette
• Roasted red peppers for color and sweetness

For a Mediterranean twist, you can even swap mozzarella for feta cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Caprese pasta salad is a great make-ahead option. Here’s how to store it:

• Fridge: Keeps for up to 3 days in an airtight container
• Refresh: Add a splash of olive oil and fresh basil before serving
• Freezer: Not recommended due to the texture of cheese and tomatoes

It’s best enjoyed within a day or two while everything is still fresh and vibrant.

What to Serve with Caprese Pasta Salad

This dish is super versatile. Pair it with:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• Burgers and hot dogs at a cookout
• Crusty bread and olives for a light lunch
• Soup or a sandwich for a hearty meal

It also makes a beautiful addition to a picnic spread or brunch buffet.

Is Caprese Pasta Salad Healthy?

Yes, relatively speaking! Here’s why:

• Tomatoes offer lycopene and vitamin C
• Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats
• Mozzarella adds protein and calcium
• Basil contains anti-inflammatory compounds

To make it even lighter, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta, reduce the cheese, or add more veggies like cucumber or zucchini.

Caprese pasta salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of summer’s best flavors in one easy bowl. Whether you’re prepping for a party or just need something fresh for dinner, this dish delivers every time. Give it your spin, serve it chilled, and enjoy a taste of Italy, right from your kitchen.

Caprese Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Summer Classic

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• Author: Manar Annan
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

This Caprese pasta salad blends the classic flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with al dente pasta and a tangy balsamic glaze. Light, fresh, and perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine), drained

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or glaze

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.

• Halve cherry tomatoes and drain mozzarella balls.

• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

• Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat.

• Chill for at least 30 minutes.

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving, if desired.

Notes

Add basil just before serving to prevent wilting.

Rotini, penne, or farfalle work best for this salad.

Customize with grilled chicken, arugula, olives, or avocado.

Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; not freezer-friendly.

Use high-quality olive oil and mozzarella for best flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling, Tossing
• Cuisine: Italian American

Keywords: Caprese pasta salad, summer salad recipes, easy pasta salad, Italian side dishes, vegetarian pasta salad, picnic food ideas, fresh mozzarella recipes