This colorful Caprese pasta salad is a vibrant mix of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella. It’s quick to make and perfect for a sunny day!
I love how easy it is to toss everything together in one bowl. Plus, it’s a great dish for picnics! Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself picking out the cheese first. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: This cute, ear-shaped pasta is perfect for holding sauces and other ingredients. If you can’t find it, any small pasta like fusilli or farfalle works well too. Quinoa or gluten-free pasta can also be great for a gluten-free option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Using a mix of colors not only looks beautiful but adds different flavors. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can chop regular tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Even sun-dried tomatoes can work in a pinch for a different twist!
Fresh Mozzarella: I prefer bocconcini for their bite-sized goodness, but ciliegine works just as well. If you’re dairy-free, try using tofu or a vegan cheese alternative that melts well.
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil for flavor, but you can substitute with fresh parsley or arugula if necessary. Dried basil won’t give quite the same taste, but it’s better than nothing in a pinch!
How Do You Keep the Pasta From Getting Soggy in the Salad?
Cooking pasta for salads can be tricky! Here are some tips to ensure it stays perfect:
- Salt your water well; it helps flavor the pasta.
- Cook the pasta until just al dente. It will continue to soften when you mix it with dressing.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water immediately after draining. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta quickly.
- Once cooled, ensure it’s well-drained before adding to the salad. Excess water can make everything soggy.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious pasta that keeps its bite and texture in your salad!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Veggies:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red, yellow, and orange if available)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for a slight tang)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad will take you about 20 minutes to prepare, including the cooking time for the pasta. It’s quick to make and perfect for your next meal, whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it and stop the cooking process. Make sure it’s well-drained, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, toss the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil into the bowl with the pasta. These colorful ingredients make your salad look as great as it tastes!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if you’re using it), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This dressing is key—it adds a lovely flavor to the salad!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and use a gentle hand to toss everything together. Make sure all the pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella are well coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like, add more salt and pepper to suit your preference.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your salad with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick, if desired. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile and easy to enjoy!
This bright and fresh salad is delicious as a light main dish or as a side for barbecues and picnics. Enjoy your creation!
FAQ for Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can use any small pasta shape like fusilli, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.
Can I Substitute the Fresh Mozzarella?
Yes! If you don’t have fresh mozzarella on hand, you can use regular mozzarella cheese cut into cubes, or even a different cheese like feta for a unique flavor twist. Vegan mozzarella alternatives work great too if you want a dairy-free option!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just give it a gentle toss before serving!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make this salad a few hours ahead of serving. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and consider adding a little extra dressing before serving to refresh the flavors.
