This Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and tasty mix of pasta, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Toss it all together with basil and a splash of olive oil for a simple dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is great for this salad because it holds the dressing and toppings well. But you can easily swap it for other small pasta shapes like fusilli, farfalle, or penne if you prefer!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of colored cherry tomatoes for added flavor and visual appeal. If they’re out of season, you can use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes.
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella balls give a creamy texture. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, crumbled feta or goat cheese can make a tasty alternative!
Basil: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use a teaspoon of dried basil, but fresh really shines in this dish.
Balsamic Vinegar: It’s optional, but a splash adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, you can use red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a fresh twist!
How Do You Make Sure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked and Chilled?
Cooking pasta correctly is crucial for a great salad. You want it al dente – tender but still with a little bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a large pot of salted water for boiling. The salt helps season the pasta.
- Follow the timing on the box, checking a minute or two early. The pasta should feel firm yet tender.
- Drain it and quickly rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also cools it down for the salad!
- Let it drain well; no one wants a watery pasta salad!
Following these tips will ensure your pasta salad is delightful and flavorful!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Base:
- 8 ounces orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors if desired)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a fresh and tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Drain well.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. This combination adds vibrant colors and flavors to your salad!
3. Add the Pasta:
Once the pasta is fully cooled, add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and cheese. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if you choose to use it), minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. The dressing will bring all the ingredients together beautifully.
5. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined. Ensure every bite is flavorful!
6. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of olive oil if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect!
7. Chill & Serve:
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, garnish with red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat and some extra fresh basil leaves!
Enjoy your fresh, colorful, and delicious Caprese Pasta Salad as a perfect side dish or a light lunch!
FAQ for Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great because it holds the dressing well, you can use any small pasta shape such as fusilli, farfalle, or penne. Just make sure to cook it al dente!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Leftover Caprese Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the freshness of the basil may fade over time, so it’s best enjoyed soon after making it!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of dried basil, although fresh basil offers a much stronger flavor. Parsley or arugula can also add a unique twist!
