What kind of pasta is best for Caprese pasta salad?

Short pasta shapes with ridges or grooves, such as rotini, penne, fusilli, or farfalle, are ideal for Caprese pasta salad. They hold the dressing and ingredients well.

What is Caprese salad dressing made of?

A Caprese salad dressing typically consists of olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or glaze), salt, pepper, and sometimes fresh basil.

Can I make Caprese pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and dressing ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

How do you keep mozzarella from getting watery in pasta salad?

To minimize watery mozzarella, use fresh mozzarella balls that are not packed in too much liquid. Pat them dry before adding them to the pasta salad. Also, add the mozzarella closer to serving time.

What are some variations I can add to Caprese pasta salad?

You can add grilled chicken or shrimp for protein, Kalamata olives for a salty flavor, roasted red peppers for sweetness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Caprese Pasta Salad: Your New Go-To For Effortless Summer Meals 2026

Name: Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound short pasta (like fusilli, farfalle, or rotini); 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (ciliegine) or one 8-ounce ball, cubed; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed; 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Caprese Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and simple pasta salad that captures the classic Italian flavors of tomato, basil, and mozzarella. The pasta is rinsed and dressed while warm to absorb the zesty vinaigrette, ensuring a perfect texture. It’s an effortless dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick, satisfying meal.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 10min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 8 servings as a side dish 1x
Category: lunch
Method: boiling
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound short pasta (like fusilli, farfalle, or rotini)
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (ciliegine) or one 8-ounce ball, cubed
1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta into a colander and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking. Let it drain very well.
While the pasta cooks, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
Transfer the drained, still-slightly-warm pasta to a large mixing bowl. Pour about three-quarters of the dressing over it and toss to coat thoroughly.
Gently fold in the halved tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil leaves.
Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and give everything one final, gentle toss. Let the salad sit for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

For best results, add the pasta to the dressing while it is still slightly warm so it absorbs the flavors. If making ahead, reserve some fresh basil to stir in just before serving for maximum freshness. The salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8
Calories: 320
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 300
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 5
Unsaturated Fat: 9
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 2
Protein: 11
Cholesterol: 25

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/caprese-pasta-salad-2/