What kind of pasta is best for Caprese salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle (bowties), penne, or fusilli work best for Caprese pasta salad because they hold the dressing and ingredients well.

What is Caprese pasta salad made of?

Caprese pasta salad is typically made with cooked pasta, fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a balsamic vinaigrette or glaze.

How long does Caprese pasta salad last?

Caprese pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the mozzarella may soften over time.

Can you add balsamic glaze to pasta salad?

Yes, balsamic glaze is a delicious addition to pasta salad, especially Caprese pasta salad. It adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.

What is the difference between Caprese and pesto pasta salad?

Caprese pasta salad features mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a balsamic vinaigrette, while pesto pasta salad uses pesto sauce (basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil) as its primary dressing.

What dressing is best for pasta salad?

The best dressing for pasta salad depends on the ingredients. For Caprese pasta salad, a balsamic vinaigrette or glaze is ideal. Other options include Italian dressing, lemon vinaigrette, or a creamy pesto.

Caprese Pasta Salad: Your Secret to a 15-Minute Cleanup Night 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 penne); 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed, plus more for garnish; 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Caprese Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and easy pasta salad featuring the classic Italian trio of tomato, basil, and fresh mozzarella. The key is dressing the warm pasta so every noodle absorbs the flavorful Italian dressing, preventing a soggy salad. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or summer gatherings.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 10min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: dinner
Method: boiling
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound short pasta (like fusilli, farfalle, or penne)
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed, plus more for garnish
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of well-salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.
Drain the cooked pasta and immediately transfer it to a large serving bowl. While still hot, pour about three-quarters of the dressing over the pasta and toss vigorously to coat.
Let the dressed pasta cool for 5-10 minutes until just warm, not hot. Add the halved tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and toss gently.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash of balsamic vinegar if desired. Garnish with additional whole basil leaves before serving.

Notes

For best results, use fresh mozzarella, not pre-shredded. Do not rinse the pasta after draining. If the salad seems dry after chilling, loosen it with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 380
Sugar: 5
Sodium: 300
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 5
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 3
Protein: 14
Cholesterol: 25

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