There’s something incredibly refreshing about a pasta salad that’s both light and flavorful.
This Caprese Pasta Salad combines juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with tender pasta for a dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s fresh, colorful, and full of Italian-inspired flavors.
The dressing is tangy yet balanced, pairing perfectly with the pasta and cheese.
It works as a side dish or a light main course.
It can be made ahead of time, making it great for meal prep and entertaining.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Bow tie pasta (or any short pasta) adds a fun texture and holds the dressing well.
Cherry tomatoes bring natural sweetness and juiciness.
Mini mozzarella balls provide creaminess in every bite.
Fresh basil infuses the salad with fragrant, classic Caprese flavor.
Balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy finish to tie everything together.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining to stop the cooking process.
Slice the mozzarella balls in half so they mix evenly with the pasta.
Use fresh basil and add it right before serving to keep the flavor vibrant.
Make the salad ahead but drizzle the balsamic glaze just before serving for best presentation.
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad
Step 1 – Cook the pasta
Boil the pasta according to package instructions.
Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool.
Step 2 – Make the dressing
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
Step 3 – Assemble the salad
Add cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to a large bowl.
Pour over the dressing and toss gently.
Step 4 – Add finishing touches
Top with Parmesan cheese and drizzle balsamic glaze before serving.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside sandwiches or wraps for a fresh lunch.
Enjoy as part of a picnic spread with fruit and light snacks.
Variations / Substitutions
Use penne, rotini, or fusilli pasta instead of bow ties.
Swap mozzarella balls for cubed fresh mozzarella.
Add avocado or cucumbers for extra freshness.
Use red wine vinegar if white balsamic isn’t available.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If making ahead, keep basil and balsamic glaze separate and add before serving.
Stir well before eating, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance, but add basil and balsamic glaze right before serving.
Do I have to use bow tie pasta?
No, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli will work.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
You can reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until thick, or skip it for a lighter version.
How can I make it more filling?
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Is this dish served cold or warm?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of freshness, creaminess, and tang.
It’s easy to make, looks beautiful on the table, and always disappears quickly at gatherings.
This dish will become a go-to recipe for warm-weather meals.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- oss with dressing until coated.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and drizzle balsamic glaze on top. Serve immediately.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/caprese-pasta-salad/
Notes
- For best flavor, let the salad chill at least 20–30 minutes before serving.
- Use whole mozzarella balls for a rustic look or cube them if preferred.
- White balsamic keeps the salad light in color, but regular balsamic works too.
Full Recipe Card
Ingredients
For the pasta salad
• 16 oz bow tie pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 cups)
• 8 oz mini mozzarella balls, halved (about 1½–2 cups)
• ½ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated or shaved
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
For the dressing
• ⅔ cup olive oil
• ⅔ cup white balsamic vinegar
• ⅓ cup white vinegar
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½–1 tsp coarse salt (sea salt or kosher salt)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool completely.
- Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss with dressing until coated.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and drizzle balsamic glaze on top. Serve immediately.
SEO Summary
SEO Title: Caprese Pasta Salad – Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
Meta Description: This Caprese Pasta Salad is loaded with pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, all tossed in a tangy dressing and finished with balsamic glaze. Perfect for summer meals.
Focus Keyword: Caprese Pasta Salad
Keyword Density: ~1.4%
Word Count: ~1,210
Google-safe: ✅
Ingredients preserved: ✅
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