Caprese Pasta Salad

Name: Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 ounces (2 cups) whole grain fusilli or rotini pasta; ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 8 ounces mozzarella “pearls”; Several sprigs of fresh basil, chopped; 2–3 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar

kate

Update : April 29, 2026

Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil

Why Make This Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and colorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It combines the classic flavors of a caprese salad – tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil – with hearty pasta to create a filling meal. This salad is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. It’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for any table.

How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients

6 ounces (2 cups) whole grain fusilli or rotini pasta (for texture)
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil (for sautéing)
2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes (for sweetness and juiciness)
½ teaspoon fine sea salt (to season)
8 ounces mozzarella “pearls” (or torn mozzarella ball for bite-sized pieces)
Several sprigs of fresh basil (chopped for flavor)
2–3 teaspoons white balsamic vinegar (or regular balsamic vinegar, to taste)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large non-reactive skillet or Dutch oven, combine olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and salt. Cover and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until most tomatoes burst and release juices, about 6–12 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked pasta. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before proceeding.
Stir in the mozzarella and chopped basil, followed by the balsamic vinegar. Taste and adjust with more vinegar or salt if necessary.
For best flavor, let the salad rest for about 20 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors. You can also refrigerate it for later use.

How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad

Serve Caprese Pasta Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. You can add extra basil on top for a fresh touch. This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or potlucks.

How to Store Caprese Pasta Salad

Store any leftover Caprese Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. If you find that the pasta absorbs too much dressing, you can add a bit more olive oil or vinegar just before serving to refresh the flavors.

Tips to Make Caprese Pasta Salad

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the tomatoes and mozzarella.
For a bit of extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder.
Feel free to add other ingredients, such as chopped cucumbers or olives, for variation.

Variation

For a warm Caprese Pasta Salad, you can bake it in the oven with some breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture. Just layer it in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole grain?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Whole grain pasta adds a nice texture and nutrition, but regular pasta works just as well.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a few hours ahead of serving, or even the day before. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.

What can I add for extra protein?
You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even some nuts like pine nuts for added protein.