Juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes and soft mozzarella pearls tossed with tender noodles create the ultimate summer comfort food. This Caprese pasta salad brings all the fresh, vibrant flavors of the classic Italian appetizer into a satisfying main dish or side. I love how the garlic-herb dressing clings to the radiatore, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness. It is the perfect Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze to bring to a backyard barbecue when you need something quick yet impressive.
Why You'll Love This
This recipe is a lifesaver during warmer months when you want something fresh without spending hours at the stove. The combination of sweet tomatoes and creamy cheese is timeless, but adding pasta turns it into a hearty Summer Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe that satisfies everyone. It comes together in just twenty minutes, making Caprese pasta salad a reliable go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks.
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Gather These Items
You only need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients to pull this dish together. This Simple Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe relies on the natural flavors of basil and tomato to do the heavy lifting.
Check the recipe card for exact amounts and full instructions.
Key Elements
- Radiatore Pasta: The ruffled shape holds the dressing beautifully; rotini works too.
- Fresh Mozzarella Pearls: These small "ciliegine" balls are bite-sized and creamy.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with sweetness and adding a pop of bright red color.
- Fresh Basil: Provides the signature aromatic, peppery note of a true Caprese.
- Balsamic Glaze: A thick, sweet reduction that adds a professional finishing touch.
Flavor Boosters
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use your best quality oil here for a rich, fruity flavor base.
- Grated Garlic: Adds a punchy, savory kick that balances the sweet tomatoes.
- White Sugar: A tiny pinch in the dressing cuts the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step)
This method ensures the pasta absorbs the flavor of the dressing while keeping the fresh ingredients crisp. Learning How To Make Caprese Pasta Salad is all about timing the cooling process correctly.
Boil the Pasta
Cook the radiatore pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture.
Should I rinse pasta for pasta salad? Yes, rinsing with cold water stops the cooking immediately and washes away excess starch, preventing the noodles from sticking together.
Cool and Drain
Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Shaking the colander well ensures no excess water dilutes your dressing later.
Mix the Dressing
Whisk the olive oil, Italian seasoning, grated garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl while the pasta cools. Whisking vigorously creates a temporary emulsion that coats the salad evenly.
Combine Base Ingredients
Combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella balls in a large serving bowl. Using a wide bowl helps you mix everything without crushing the tender tomatoes.
Toss and Coat
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until every noodle and tomato is evenly coated. This step marries the flavors, allowing the oil and herbs to soak into the pasta crevices.
Add Fresh Herbs
Stir in the fresh basil ribbons just before serving to ensure the leaves stay bright green and aromatic. Adding basil too early can cause it to wilt and turn dark from the dressing's acidity.
Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze right over the top for a sweet, tangy contrast. This final touch adds visual appeal and a burst of concentrated flavor.
Top Tip
Creating the perfect Caprese pasta salad is easy, but these small details will make it taste like it came from a deli.
Glaze Last → Keeps colors clean → Prevents the balsamic from turning the pasta brown and muddy.
Salt the Water → Flavors the pasta inside out → Ensures the Easy Caprese Pasta Salad isn't bland.
Dry the Cheese → Removes excess whey → Prevents the salad from becoming watery at the bottom.
Use Ribbons → Distributes basil flavor → Ensures you get herbs in every bite, not just whole leaves.
Room Temp Serving → Maximizes tomato flavor → Cold tomatoes can taste muted and mealy.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →Swaps & Alternatives
You can easily customize this dish to fit your pantry or dietary needs. Adding grilled chicken strips or chickpeas turns this Balsamic Pasta Salad into a protein-packed main course. If you don't have radiatore, farfalle (bowties) or penne are excellent substitutes that still trap plenty of dressing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Pasta Salad With Fresh Mozzarella can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb the dressing over time, so you might need to toss it with a splash of extra olive oil before serving again. Do not freeze this salad, as the fresh cheese and tomatoes will lose their texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Caprese pasta salad alongside grilled meats like steak or lemon-herb chicken for a complete summer feast. It is also fantastic on its own as a light lunch, especially when you need Caprese Pasta Salad For A Crowd at a picnic. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra dressing left in the bowl.
FAQs About Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I make this salad a day ahead?
Yes, but for the best Tomato Basil Mozzarella Pasta Salad texture, add the fresh basil and balsamic glaze right before serving so they stay fresh.
What is the best pasta shape to use?
Short shapes with nooks and crannies like radiatore, rotini, or fusilli are best because they hold onto the oil and herbs better than smooth shapes.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Fresh basil is key for the authentic Caprese flavor. Dried basil works in the dressing, but it won't provide the same aromatic lift as fresh leaves.
Why is my pasta salad dry the next day?
Pasta acts like a sponge and drinks up the dressing. Simply drizzle a little more olive oil and toss it again to bring the moisture back.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you enjoyed this Dinner, you will love exploring these other fresh options that match the Caprese pasta salad vibe. A good Mozzarella Balls Pasta Salad is just the start of summer cooking.
Tried this recipe? Tag me on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - I'd love to see your twist on it!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the radiatore pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Whisk the olive oil, Italian seasoning, grated garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl while the pasta cools.
- Combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella balls in a large serving bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until every noodle and tomato is evenly coated.
- Stir in the fresh basil ribbons just before serving to ensure the leaves stay bright green and aromatic.
- Finish the dish with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze right over the top for a sweet, tangy contrast.
Nutrition
Notes
Pairing
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