This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a fun twist on the classic! It mixes pasta with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and rich mozzarella, all brought together with a smooth, creamy dressing.
Your friends won’t believe how easy this is to make! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a dish that looks fancy but takes hardly any time. Perfect for picnics or lazy dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape is great for holding onto the dressing and veggies. If you prefer, you can swap it for fusilli or bowtie pasta. Gluten-free pasta works well too!
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Their sweetness makes this salad shine. You can replace them with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor, or use regular diced tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using part-skim mozzarella. For a dairy-free version, you could use vegan cheese or omit it altogether.
Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil for flavor! If you can’t find fresh, you can use dried basil, but start with less as it’s stronger. You can also experiment with other herbs like parsley or oregano.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar can be good substitutes.
How Can I Make the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Getting the dressing right is key for this pasta salad. Here’s how to ensure it’s smooth and flavorful:
- Start with mayonnaise as a base; this gives creaminess. Use plain Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Mix in olive oil for richness. Whisk it well with other ingredients to avoid lumps. A small amount of mustard can also enhance the flavor.
- Add garlic powder for a hint of spice. Taste your dressing first before adding salt or pepper to avoid over-seasoning.
Once blended, toss the dressing with the pasta gently to ensure every piece is coated. Enjoy the delightful flavors in every bite!
How to Make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator, making it a great option for gatherings or meal prep. Total time is roughly 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking. Set it aside.
2. Combining the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, small cubes of fresh mozzarella, and the sliced basil leaves. This combination gives the salad its beautiful colors and fresh flavors!
3. Making the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing should complement all the salad ingredients beautifully.
4. Mixing the Salad:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until each piece is well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to squash the tomatoes or mozzarella!
5. Seasoning and Adjusting:
Take a moment to taste your salad. You can add more salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar based on your preference. This is your chance to make it just right!
6. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and makes the salad even tastier.
7. Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle toss again to redistribute the dressing. You can garnish it with a few extra basil strips and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor and presentation.
Enjoy your vibrant and creamy Caprese Pasta Salad as a delightful side dish or a light meal! Perfect for summer picnics or family dinners!
FAQ about Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works great in this salad. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and make sure to rinse it well after cooking to prevent sticking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad might get a little thicker as it sits, so feel free to add a splash of olive oil or vinegar to refresh it when serving again.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance! Just keep it in the fridge and add the dressing just before serving to keep the pasta from getting too soft. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier or vegan option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. You can also try a homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and spices for a lighter version!
