Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

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Created on September 11th, 2025 at 07:44 pm

A dreamy summer side with fresh flavor

This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is your go-to summer side dish! Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and ribbons of fresh basil, it’s tossed in a tangy white balsamic dressing that keeps things light and flavorful. Whether you’re planning a sunny weekend BBQ, a casual dinner with friends, or need an easy make-ahead lunch, this recipe brings summer vibes to the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it uses simple pantry staples — no fancy ingredients needed! It’s one of those fancy pasta salad recipes that looks impressive but is secretly effortless. Trust us: this one will disappear fast at any potluck or cookout 🍅✨

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another pasta salad — it’s a fresh twist on a Caprese classic, made extra satisfying with tender pasta and a bold, creamy dressing. It’s incredibly easy to make, totally customizable, and holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep, weekend getaways, or family reunions. Because it skips heavy mayo, it’s lighter and ideal for hot summer days. The combo of fresh basil, tangy vinegar, and creamy mozzarella makes each bite pop with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or packing up for a beach day, this pasta salad fits right in 🧺🌞

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients List

Salad

1 pound small pasta (fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
16 oz mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls), halved
3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup thinly sliced fresh basil

Dressing

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
1 tsp kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups & spoons
Mason jar or small bowl (for mixing dressing)
Wooden spoon or spatula

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt generously. Add pasta and cook until al dente (per package). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking 🌊
Prep the Veggies & Mozzarella
While pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Place both in a large mixing bowl 🍅🧀
Add the Basil
Slice fresh basil into thin ribbons and add to the bowl with tomatoes and mozzarella.
Cool the Pasta
Once rinsed and cool, add the pasta to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
Make the Dressing
In a jar or bowl, mix olive oil, white balsamic, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined 🫙
Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Let It Marinate
Let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can mingle. Refrigerate if prepping ahead 🕒✨

💡 Pro Tips

Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add fresh basil just before serving for best color.
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or sliced steak to turn it into a full meal.
Vinegar Swap: No white balsamic? Try regular balsamic or even lemon juice for a different twist.
Party Perfect: Double the recipe for big gatherings — it’s a hit at BBQs, birthdays, and beach days!

📊 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 plate	525	18g	65g	22g	4g	6g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.