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Delicious Caprese Pasta Salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil

Caprese Pasta Salad

A refreshing and simple salad featuring tender pasta, ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil vinaigrette — perfect for potlucks or quick dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Produce
  • 12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle) Swap for whole-wheat pasta for a nuttier, fiber-rich twist.
  • 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Heirlooms add color and a sweeter note.
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed Substitute with baby spinach for a milder green.
Cheese and Dressing
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces Use mini bocconcini if preferred.
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil A good quality makes a big difference.
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar Try aged balsamic for more depth.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Roasting it gives a sweeter flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) For a gentle heat.
  • 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional) For added crunch.

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually 1–2 minutes less than package directions.
  2. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta; set aside in a large mixing bowl.
Making the Dressing
  1. While the pasta cooks, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Taste and adjust acidity with more salt or vinegar as needed.
Mixing Ingredients
  1. Halve the cherry tomatoes and tear the mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Add tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to the cooled pasta.
  3. Pour the dressing over and toss gently so every piece is coated.
  4. Fold in any optional add-ins like toasted pine nuts or white beans.
  5. For a brighter finish, grate fresh lemon zest over the top.
Final Touches
  1. Taste and season again, adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if needed.
  2. Chill for 30 minutes if possible, or serve immediately at room temperature.
  3. Before serving, give a gentle toss and garnish with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian-friendly protein boost, add white beans or chickpeas. For Mediterranean flavor, fold in olives and roasted red peppers.