Best Caprese Pasta Salad

This Caprese pasta salad combines tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, all tossed in a light balsamic-olive oil dressing. Classic Italian flavors with a refreshing twist.

⏱ Time & Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: ~25 minutes

• Servings: 6–8

🧾 Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)

• 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed)

• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or balsamic vinegar)

• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• Grilled chicken

• Avocado slices

• Kalamata olives

• Red pepper flakes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook Pasta
   Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
   Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.

2. Assemble Salad
   In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

3. Make Dressing
   Whisk olive oil, balsamic glaze, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.

4. Toss
   Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.

5. Chill or Serve
   Serve immediately or chill 30 minutes for best flavor.

🍽 Flavor & Texture

✔ Fresh and light
✔ Creamy mozzarella
✔ Sweet-tangy balsamic
✔ Herb-packed and refreshing

⭐ Tips & Variations

• Best texture: Add basil just before serving

• Extra flavor: Finish with flaky sea salt

• Make-ahead: Add dressing right before serving

• Low-carb: Use chickpea or zucchini pasta

• Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella

📊 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 310

• Fat: 18g

• Carbs: 30g

• Protein: 9g