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Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 50 reviews

This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad combines al dente small pasta, fresh mozzarella balls, and juicy cherry tomatoes, tossed with aromatic basil and a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect as a light, refreshing side dish or a delightful summer meal, this easy no-cook salad packs vibrant flavors and creamy textures in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
  • Kosher salt (for pasta water)

Salad Ingredients

  • 16 ounces mozzarella balls (such as ciliegine or pearls), halved
  • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed

Instructions

  1. Cook and Cool the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season generously with kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse lightly with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Mozzarella and Tomatoes: While the pasta cooks, drain the mozzarella balls and cut them in half. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. Place both the mozzarella halves and cherry tomatoes into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with mozzarella and tomatoes. Toss in the thinly sliced fresh basil and gently mix all ingredients together to combine.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir or shake well until the dressing is thoroughly mixed.
  5. Dress the Salad and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. For optimal flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use small pasta shapes like fusilli, orecchiette, or penne for best texture and flavor absorption.
  • Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents the salad from becoming mushy.
  • Allowing the salad to sit before serving enhances the flavor by letting the dressing fully meld with the ingredients.
  • This pasta salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Fresh basil is crucial for authentic Caprese flavor; avoid dried basil for this recipe.

Keywords: Caprese Pasta Salad, Creamy Pasta Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Mozzarella Pasta Salad, Summer Salad, Fresh Basil Salad, Cherry Tomato Salad

Find it online: https://lieblingsmahlzeit.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad-recipe/