Name: Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, rotini, or cavatappi); 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, gently torn; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1½ tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar); 1 small garlic clove, finely minced; 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)

This caprese pasta salad is just what you need if you’re in the mood for something light, refreshing, and filling. Tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil are all combined in this simple caprese pasta salad recipe, which is inspired by traditional Italian flavors and has a light olive oil dressing.

Jump to Recipe

The finest aspect? This summer pasta salad is ideal for last-minute get-togethers, hectic weekdays, and quick lunches because it only takes 30 minutes to prepare.

What Is Caprese Pasta Salad?

Caprese pasta salad is a new take on the classic Caprese salad that uses pasta. Adding cooked pasta to the tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella makes it more filling and makes it a great cold pasta salad or light meal.

This pasta salad is inspired by Italian food, is naturally vegetarian, refreshing, and can be served as a side dish or a lunch on its own.

Why This Caprese Pasta Salad Takes Less Than 30 Minutes

The fact that this easy caprese pasta salad comes together so quickly is one reason why people like it so much:

While you get the fresh ingredients ready, the pasta cooks.
No need to bake, roast, or chill
Dressing made with just olive oil and balsamic vinegar, no mayo

That makes it a great pasta salad to make quickly on hot days or when you’re busy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You can easily find the simple, fresh ingredients for this recipe:

Pasta (penne, rotini, or cavatappi)
Cherry or grape tomatoes
Fresh mozzarella (pearls or cubed)
Fresh basil leaves
Olive oil
Balsamic glaze or balsamic vinegar
Garlic
Salt and black pepper

How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta (10 Minutes)

Put a lot of salt in a big pot of water and bring it to a boil. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, then drain it well and let it cool down a bit. Timing is important because overcooked pasta can make the salad soggy.

Step 2: Prep the Fresh Ingredients (10 Minutes)

While the pasta is cooking, cut the cherry tomatoes in half, cut the fresh mozzarella into cubes or pieces, and gently tear the basil leaves. Chop the garlic very finely so that the flavor is even.

Step 3: Toss & Dress (5 to 7 Minutes)

Put the basil, mozzarella, tomatoes, and pasta in a big bowl. Add garlic, salt, and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil and toss gently. Finish with balsamic glaze for a classic caprese pasta salad with the flavor of balsamic glaze.

Tips for the Best Flavor

For better taste, use ingredients that are at room temperature.
Don’t wear too much; this salad should feel light.
To keep it bright, add basil just before serving.

These little things make a big difference in a new pasta salad.

Easy Variations & Add-Ins

You can change this dish in so many ways:

Add olives or cucumbers to your Mediterranean pasta salad for a twist.
Grilled chicken or chickpeas can give you more protein.
If you want to make it pesto, use a spoonful of pesto instead of balsamic.
If you want whole grains, use whole-wheat pasta.

These changes are great for potlucks, and they make this summer caprese pasta salad taste different every time.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Serving Tips

You can make this salad a few hours ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. To get the best results:

Store in an airtight container
Right before you serve, add basil and more olive oil.
Enjoy in 24 to 36 hours

It’s perfect for making ahead of time for picnics and parties.

When to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad

This Italian salad in the caprese style is great for:

Summer lunches
Potlucks and BBQs
Light family dinners
Vegetarian meal prep

On warm days, it’s especially popular as a caprese pasta salad with cold mozzarella.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a salad with cold pasta?
Yes, it tastes best when it’s a little cool or at room temperature.

Is it okay if I skip the balsamic glaze?
Of course. Olive oil alone still tastes great.

What kind of pasta is best?
Short pasta, such as penne, rotini, or cavatappi, holds the dressing well.

Final Note

This simple caprese pasta salad recipe shows that you can make a lot of flavor quickly with just a few ingredients. This pasta salad is a summer favorite that you can make over and over again. It’s fresh, colorful, and sure to please everyone.