This Caprese Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed with pasta. It’s colorful and perfect for warm days!
What I love most is how quick it comes together. Just boil the pasta, chop some veggies, and mix! It’s like a summer party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Shell pasta works great here, but feel free to use other types like fusilli or penne. Gluten-free options are available too, perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of red and yellow for vibrant color and taste. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes are a solid substitute.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini is fantastic, but you can use any fresh mozzarella. Cubes of mozzarella can be used if you’re in a pinch, or even feta for a twist!
Basil: Fresh basil brightens the salad, but if you can’t find it, Italian seasoning or dried basil can work as a backup, though the flavor will be different. Adjust how much you use based on your preference!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta well is crucial for this salad. You want it al dente, which means firm to the bite. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add pasta and cook based on the package directions. Check for doneness a minute before the time is up.
- Once done, drain it and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep the pasta from getting soggy.
Remember to taste as you go! Adjust the cooking time based on the shape and brand of the pasta for best results.
Best Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 8 oz shell pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (mix of red and yellow)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
For The Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you can chill it for an extra 30 minutes for more intense flavors. Super quick and refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooling, take a large mixing bowl and add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls. This mix will give your salad a burst of color and flavor!
3. Combine Everything:
Now, add the cooked shell pasta to the bowl with the tomatoes and mozzarella. It’s coming together nicely!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be your flavorful dressing!
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and sprinkle in the chopped basil. Gently toss everything together to coat the ingredients evenly and make sure each bite is delicious!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give the salad a taste. If you think it needs a bit more flavor, feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar if you like it tangy!
7. Give It a Kick (Optional):
If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a nice kick. Totally optional, but tasty!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve the salad right away, but I recommend refrigerating it for about 30 minutes first. This will help all those lovely flavors meld together. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can try using diced mozzarella cheese, string cheese, or even feta for a tangier flavor. Just cube it up similarly and enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It might get a little soggy, so give it a quick toss with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving again.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can make this salad a few hours in advance! Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. For best taste, add the basil and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
