This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh twist on a classic dish. With delicious pasta, creamy pesto, juicy tomatoes, and mozzarella, it’s sure to please everyone!
You can make it ahead and enjoy it cold, making it perfect for picnics. I love grabbing a scoop when I want something quick, tasty, and colorful on my plate. 🍅🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: This pasta has a lovely shape that holds onto the sauce well. If you can’t find orecchiette, fusilli or farfalle would work too. Just make sure to cook it al dente for best texture!
Cherry Tomatoes: Using a mix of red and yellow adds both flavor and visual appeal. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes can be good alternatives.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls: I love the bite-sized bocconcini for this dish. If you’re short on time, shredded mozzarella also works. Just keep in mind it won’t have quite the same creamy texture.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought is great for convenience, but homemade brings a fresh taste. If you want a nut-free version, try using sunflower seed pesto or spinach-based pesto.
Greek Yogurt: This gives a nice creaminess without being too heavy. You can replace it with sour cream or even plain yogurt if you prefer. For a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream!
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Salad is Creamy and Flavorful?
Getting that perfect creamy texture and flavor in your pasta salad starts with the right mixing techniques. Here’s how:
- Cook your pasta in salted water. This enhances its flavor.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking! This stops the cooking process and cools it, making it perfect for a salad.
- Whisk your dressing ingredients together well. Getting that creamy blend of pesto and yogurt mixes perfectly with the warm pasta.
- Toss everything gently! When you add tomatoes and mozzarella, folding them in keeps them intact.
- Chill it! Letting it sit helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) orecchiette pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow for color)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped + extra for garnish
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream (for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at a total of 45 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious pasta salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your orecchiette pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but still firm to the bite (usually around 8-10 minutes). After that, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), olive oil, and lemon juice. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to taste it! Add salt and pepper to your liking, which gives it that extra flavor boost.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add your cooled pasta to the creamy dressing. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the dressing. It’s essential to mix it carefully to keep the pasta intact.
4. Add Freshness:
Next, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Be gentle here too—this keeps your ingredients looking nice and fresh.
5. Final Seasoning:
Give it one last taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice can help highlight those vibrant flavors.
6. Chill:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite delicious!
7. Serve:
Before serving, toss the salad gently again. Garnish it with some extra basil leaves to bring a pop of color, and then it’s ready to enjoy—either cold or at room temperature. Perfect for any summer gathering!
Enjoy this refreshing Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, and impress your family and friends at your next picnic or potluck! 🍽️✨
FAQs for Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette works beautifully, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture in your salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but it’s best enjoyed fresh within the first few days!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad is perfect for making in advance. Prepare it up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Just be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with light sour cream or even plain yogurt. For a dairy-free option, cashew cream or a vegan yogurt can also work well!
