What kind of pasta is best for Caprese pasta salad?

Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, fusilli, or farfalle are ideal for Caprese pasta salad because they hold the dressing and other ingredients well.

Can I make Caprese pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, Caprese pasta salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, allowing it to sit for a few hours or even overnight allows the flavors to meld together. However, add fresh basil just before serving to prevent it from wilting.

How long does Caprese pasta salad last?

Caprese pasta salad will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The tomatoes may become softer over time.

What is the dressing for Caprese pasta salad made of?

The dressing for Caprese pasta salad typically consists of olive oil, balsamic vinegar (or balsamic glaze), salt, and pepper. Some variations may include garlic, Dijon mustard, or Italian herbs.

Can I add protein to Caprese pasta salad?

Yes, you can add protein to Caprese pasta salad. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great options.

What can I serve with Caprese pasta salad?

Caprese pasta salad makes a great side dish for grilled meats, chicken, or fish. It can also be served as a light lunch or appetizer.

Caprese Pasta Salad: Your New Go-To Summer Side Dish 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 or pearl-sized bocconcini; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade); 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 small garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Optional: 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or a pinch of red pepper flakes

Caprese Pasta Salad

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This vibrant pasta salad combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the easy, crowd-pleasing nature of a cold pasta dish. The secret is tossing the warm pasta with the dressing first, allowing it to absorb maximum flavor for a result that is never dry or dull. It’s the perfect make-ahead side for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 10min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: lunch
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 or pearl-sized bocconcini
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (chiffonade)
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or a pinch of red pepper flakes

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Instructions

Cook the pasta in a large pot of well-salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl to make the dressing.
Immediately add the drained hot pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss thoroughly. If needed, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water to help the dressing coat the pasta.
Let the dressed pasta cool for 10-15 minutes to prevent the cheese from melting.
Gently fold in the halved tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and most of the sliced basil.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Let the salad rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend. Garnish with remaining basil and optional toppings just before serving.

Notes

For best results, do not skip tossing the warm pasta with the dressing. Let the pasta cool slightly before adding the fresh mozzarella to prevent it from melting. The salad tastes even better the next day and stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 380
Sugar: 5
Sodium: 450
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 6
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 48
Fiber: 3
Protein: 14
Cholesterol: 30

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