This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is colorful and fresh, featuring tasty bites of pasta, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. It’s like Italy in a bowl!
Preparing this salad is a breeze! I love how it comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a sunny picnic. Just mix, toss, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: This pasta shape resembles small ears and holds dressing well. If you can’t find it, any small pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne would also work nicely.
Cherry Tomatoes: Mix red, yellow, and orange cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, diced regular tomatoes will do in a pinch, but drainage may need to be careful to avoid sogginess.
Fresh Mozzarella: Use bocconcini or ciliegine mozzarella balls for a perfect pairing. If you’re in a hurry, pre-shredded mozzarella can be a faster option, but it won’t have quite the same creamy texture.
Basil: Fresh basil brings great flavor. If fresh basil isn’t available, you could use dried herbs, but the flavor will be quite different. A mix of Italian herbs can add a nice touch, too.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta al dente is crucial for keeping the salad fresh. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This helps flavor the pasta.
- When you add the pasta, stir it immediately to prevent sticking.
- Follow the package cooking time but start checking for doneness a minute or two early. It should be firm to the bite, not mushy!
- Once done, drain in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it from becoming overly soft.
With these tips, you’ll have pasta that’s just right for your Caprese salad. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 2 cups 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, chopped and some whole for garnish
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for a tangy accent)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is spent cooking the pasta and chopping the ingredients. If you want the flavors to meld a bit, chilling it for about 30 minutes in the fridge would also be great!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the orecchiette pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Make sure it’s thoroughly drained!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves. This creates a colorful and fresh base for your salad!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar (if you’re using it), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together nicely.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss everything together until it’s all evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful not to crush the mozzarella!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the salad with whole basil leaves on top for a beautiful presentation. Serve it right away, or if you prefer, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let the flavors blend even more. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
This delightful Caprese Pasta Salad is perfect for warm weather picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great for this dish, you can use any small pasta shape like rotini, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Caprese pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time, but the fresh basil may wilt a bit.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just omit the fresh basil until you’re ready to serve, to keep it looking bright and fresh. Chill it in the fridge and then add basil right before serving for the best flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use shredded mozzarella, although the texture and taste will differ. Alternatively, burrata is a lovely option, offering a richer and creamier flavor that pairs beautifully with the salad.
