When the weather warms up, nothing beats a fresh, simple pasta salad that’s loaded with flavor.
This Caprese Pasta Salad brings together all the beloved elements of a classic Caprese — juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil — and tosses them with tender pasta and a sweet balsamic glaze.
It’s a beautiful, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together in minutes and works perfectly for summer picnics, backyard barbecues, or easy weeknight dinners.
What makes this salad truly special is how the pasta soaks up the olive oil and balsamic glaze, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
It’s a modern twist on the traditional Caprese, made heartier and more satisfying by adding pasta. And the best part? You can prep it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons this Caprese Pasta Salad is one of my favorite go-to dishes during the warmer months:
- Quick and easy to make – It comes together in about 20 minutes.
- Fresh and vibrant flavors – The combination of basil, tomato, and mozzarella never disappoints.
- Perfect for gatherings – It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.
- Make-ahead friendly – You can chill it in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy Caprese Pasta Salad, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta – I like rotini or bowtie pasta because they hold the dressing well.
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes – Halved for easy bites.
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls – Bocconcini or ciliegine are great options.
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves – Torn or thinly sliced.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste.
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
This pasta salad couldn’t be simpler. Just follow these steps:
- Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
- Prep the other ingredients. While the pasta is cooling, halve your cherry tomatoes, drain the mozzarella balls, and tear or slice the fresh basil.
- Combine everything. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Dress the salad. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve or chill. You can serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a chilled version. Just before serving, add an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor and a pretty finish.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Don’t overcook your pasta. You want it to be al dente so it holds up well when tossed with the dressing.
- Use fresh basil. Dried basil just won’t have the same vibrant flavor or appearance.
- Add balsamic glaze just before serving if making ahead. This keeps the salad looking fresh and prevents it from becoming too dark or soggy.
- Customize it! Add a handful of arugula for a peppery bite, or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Caprese Pasta Salad is best enjoyed the day it’s made, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb some of the dressing, so give it a quick drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze before serving again.
Perfect Occasions for This Salad
This salad is perfect for:
- Summer picnics
- Potlucks and barbecues
- Quick weeknight dinners
- Backyard parties and casual gatherings
It’s colorful, flavorful, and easy to transport — making it an ideal addition to any warm-weather spread.
This Caprese Pasta Salad is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your back pocket all summer long. It’s simple, beautiful, and full of fresh, bright flavors. Whether you’re hosting friends or just looking for a no-fuss meal at home, this salad delivers every time.
Recipe Card Description (for your builder)
A fresh and easy Caprese Pasta Salad made with tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a sweet balsamic glaze. A perfect summer dish for potlucks, picnics, or quick dinners.
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