Best Caprese Pasta Salad

This Caprese Pasta Salad blends the flavors of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil with a simple, tangy vinaigrette, making it the perfect dish for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. It’s a delightful option for potlucks, barbecues, or a refreshing lunch. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

Vinaigrette Dressing:

¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup balsamic vinegar

2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Caprese Pasta Salad:

½ pound dried pasta (farfalle or another small pasta is recommended)

8 ounces mozzarella pearls, or cubed fresh mozzarella
2 cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Whisk or shake the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta firm.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and sliced basil.
Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until well mixed.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Tips for Best Results

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes are key to getting that classic Caprese flavor.
Chill the Salad: For extra flavor, chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the vinaigrette meld with the pasta and veggies.
Add Protein: To turn this into a more filling meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the salad a day in advance, but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the pasta from soaking up too much liquid.

What other types of pasta can I use?

Any small pasta like rotini, penne, or orecchiette will work well in this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day!

Enjoy this refreshing Caprese Pasta Salad and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!