This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, it’s bursting with flavor!
This salad is like a picnic on a plate! I love making it for quick lunches or backyard BBQs. It’s super simple, and you know what? It always impresses my friends! 🍅🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette gives a nice texture for this salad, but you could use any small pasta shape like fusilli, farfalle, or even penne. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta alternatives!
Cherry Tomatoes: Mixing different colored cherry tomatoes makes the dish visually appealing. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work well too. For the best flavor, use vine-ripened tomatoes.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love bocconcini for their bite-sized convenience, but ciliegine (larger mozzarella balls) are fine too. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan mozzarella or tofu cubes.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount as it’s more potent. Fresh herbs like parsley can also add a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta to the right texture, known as al dente, is key for salads. Follow these steps for success:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt helps flavor the pasta.
- Add the pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Set a timer for a minute less than the package recommends.
- Test a piece by biting into it. It should be cooked through but still have a slight bite.
- Immediately drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red, yellow, and orange if possible)
- 1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caprese Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes of prep time and an extra 30 minutes if you decide to chill it in the fridge before serving. Altogether, it’s a quick and effortless dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
2. Combining the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella balls. They should all be mixed together for a colorful and appetizing salad.
3. Making the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic until everything is well combined. This dressing will add fantastic flavor!
4. Dressing the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the tasty dressing.
5. Adding Freshness:
Next, add the freshly chopped basil leaves and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Give it another light toss so that the basil is mixed in well.
6. Optional Touch:
If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before serving. This adds a delightful kick!
7. Serve or Chill:
You can enjoy this salad right away, or for even better flavor, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, you can garnish it with extra basil leaves for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant Caprese pasta salad—a perfect blend of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil with a tangy dressing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great for this salad, you can substitute any small pasta shape like fusilli, rotini, or even penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more! Just give it a good toss before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it perfect for gatherings. Just wait to add the basil until right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but use it sparingly as it’s more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh herbs like parsley or arugula can give a different but delicious flavor profile!
