Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and delicious dish perfect for summer gatherings. This vibrant salad brings together the classic flavors of Caprese with the heartiness of pasta, delivering a comforting experience. With its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients, it’s an easy recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a potluck dish.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Quick and Easy Preparation
This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy weekdays. With just a few simple steps, you can have a colorful and flavorful dish ready to impress your family or guests.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Sharing
Not only is this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad tasty, but it’s also excellent for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or take it to a gathering for sharing.
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients
The fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella create a symphony of flavors that burst in every bite. The dressing adds a zesty finish, making this salad an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients for Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Fresh Basil
The star of this salad is the fresh basil. It adds a fragrant aroma and a delightful taste that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
Pasta Choices
You can use any small pasta shape that you love, such as fusilli, orecchiette, or penne. This versatility allows you to customize the salad to your preference.
Mozzarella Balls
Opt for ciliegine or pearl mozzarella balls for a delightful, creamy texture. They enhance the salad’s creaminess, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
Cherry Tomatoes
Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness, providing a contrast to the richness of the cheese and dressing.
Dressing Components
The dressing is a simple blend of extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. This combination elevates the salad, tying all the flavors together perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
Boil a pot of water and season it with kosher salt. Add the small pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella and Tomatoes
While the pasta cooks, drain the mozzarella balls and cut them in half. Halve the cherry tomatoes and combine them in a mixing bowl with the mozzarella.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the mozzarella and tomatoes. Gently toss in the sliced basil.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, mix together the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 5: Dress the Salad and Let it Rest
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss to coat. Allow the salad to rest for about 30 minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
Tips for the Best Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Avoid Overcooking the Pasta
To prevent mushiness, ensure the pasta is cooked just until al dente, as it will absorb dressing afterward.
Adding Basil at the Right Time
For the freshest taste and vibrant color, add the basil just before serving.
Using Pasta Cooking Water for Dressing
If needed, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water to help dress the salad evenly.
Variations to Try
Different Pasta Shapes
Feel free to substitute any short pasta shape based on what you have on hand.
Cheese Substitutions
You can try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Alternative Vinegars
Experiment with other types of vinegar, such as red wine or apple cider vinegar, for a different taste profile.
Storage Instructions
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep tomatoes and basil separate until serving.
Best Practices for Freshness
To maintain optimal freshness, consider storing the ingredients separately and assembling the salad right before serving.
FAQs
How long does Caprese Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
Caprese Pasta Salad can last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
What are the benefits of eating Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad?
Caprese salad is rich in vitamins and antioxidants from the fresh ingredients, offering health benefits such as improved heart health and digestion.
How many calories in a Caprese Pasta Salad?
A serving of Caprese Pasta Salad contains approximately 2000-2200 calories for the entire dish.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Chopped Peach Caprese Salad
- Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
- Cottage Cheese Pasta
- Cheesy Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Scalloped Potatoes
Conclusion
This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Its delicious blend of flavors and textures is complemented perfectly by a simple dressing. For even more inspiration, check out Elly’s Recipes on pinterest for a variety of cooking ideas and fun recipes to try with your family and friends.
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Equipment
- pot
- Mixing bowl
- small bowl or jar
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
- 1 lb small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
- 16 oz mozzarella balls (e.g., ciliegine or pearls, drained)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Boil salted water, cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- While the pasta cooks, drain and halve the mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes, then combine them in a bowl.
- Add the cooled pasta and sliced basil to the bowl, then toss to combine.
- Mix olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and let it rest for 30 minutes before serving.