Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, colourful and easy Italian-inspired dish made with tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil and a tangy balsamic dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, potlucks or a light family meal, this refreshing salad comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers vibrant flavours in every bite. It's a simple yet impressive recipe that's ideal for any occasion.
Equipment
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife – For safely slicing tomatoes and chopping fresh basil.
- 1 Large Cutting Board – Provides a stable surface for ingredient preparation.
- 1 Large Saucepan: – Used for boiling the pasta until perfectly al dente.
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl – Allows easy tossing of all ingredients without crushing the mozzarella.
- 1 Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: – Gently folds ingredients together while keeping tomatoes intact.
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons – – Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for consistent flavour.
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl – Perfect for whisking together the dressing before adding it to the salad.
- 1 Whisk – Helps emulsify the dressing for smooth, even coating.
Ingredients
- 500 g Fusilli or Rotini Pasta
- 300 g Cherry Tomatoes - Halved
- 250 g Fresh Mozzarella Pearls
- ½ Cup Fresh Basil Leaves - Torn
- 3 Tablespoons Olive Oil – Extra Virgin
- 2 Tablespoons Balsamic Glaze
- 1 Teaspoon Sea Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- 2 Garlic Cloves - Minced
- 1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- ¼ Cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook The Pasta
- Bring a large saucepan of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the packet instructions until al dente.
- Avoid overcooking, as firm pasta gives Caprese Pasta Salad the best texture.
Step 2: Cool The Pasta
- Drain immediately.
- Rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Allow the pasta to drain completely before transferring it to a large bowl.
Step 3: Prepare The Vegetables
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Tear the basil leaves by hand to preserve their fresh aroma.
- Drain the mozzarella pearls thoroughly.
Step 4: Prepare The Dressing
Whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Balsamic glaze
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Assemble The Salad
- Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl.
Fold in:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mozzarella pearls
- Fresh basil
- Pour over the dressing.
Step 6: Fold Gently
- Using a spatula, gently fold everything together.
- Ensure every piece of pasta is coated evenly without crushing the cheese.
Step 7: Finish And Serve
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the top.
- Drizzle with a little extra balsamic glaze if desired.
- Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving for the freshest flavour.
Notes
- 🌿 For the best flavour, use fresh basil, ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella rather than pre-shredded or processed cheese.
- 🍝 Cook the pasta al dente to help it hold its shape and prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
- ❄️ Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients to keep the mozzarella fresh and the basil vibrant.
- 🫒 Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze to enhance the authentic Italian flavour.
- 🥗 Chill the Caprese Pasta Salad for 20–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld together beautifully.
- 🌿 Add the fresh basil just before serving to maintain its bright colour and fragrant aroma.
- 🧀 If making ahead, reserve a little mozzarella, basil and balsamic glaze to garnish just before serving for the freshest presentation.
- 🥄 Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently and add a drizzle of olive oil if the pasta has absorbed some of the dressing.
- ❄️ Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes will lose their texture after thawing.
- ❤️ This Caprese Pasta Salad is delicious as a light vegetarian meal or served alongside grilled chicken, steak, seafood or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.