This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad brings together tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella for a colorful and delicious dish. It’s refreshing and perfect for any meal!
I love how this salad takes just a few minutes to whip up. Toss everything together, and you’re ready to impress your friends. Plus, who can resist cheese and tomatoes? 🧀🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: This shape is perfect for holding onto the sauce and ingredients. If you can’t find it, feel free to use small pasta like fusilli or penne. Both work well here.
Cherry Tomatoes: A mix of colors not only looks beautiful but also offers varying flavors. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, consider using sun-dried tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes (drain well).
Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini adds a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using mixed nuts soaked in water and mashed for a similar texture.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds that classic Caprese flavor. If you don’t have fresh basil, dried oregano or parsley can provide a different yet nice flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your pasta just right is essential. Here’s a quick guide:
- Start with plenty of salted boiling water; this adds flavor.
- Check the package for cooking times. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste a piece a minute or two before the package time is up. It should be slightly firm (al dente).
- Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water. This stops cooking and helps cool it down for the salad.
Remember, the pasta will absorb some dressing when mixed, so slightly undercooking it helps! Enjoy your colorful Caprese Salad!
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of red, yellow, and orange if possible)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad is quick to prepare! Expect about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes if you’d like to chill it in the fridge. Perfect for a lively lunch or a delightful potluck dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Let it sit in the strainer to drain completely.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and the drained fresh mozzarella balls. This creates a beautiful foundation for your salad!
3. Add Flavors:
Now, add in the minced garlic, torn fresh basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar if you’re using it. All these ingredients will mingle together to create delicious flavors in your salad.
4. Toss It All Together:
Gently toss everything together until the pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella are evenly coated in the olive oil and vinegar. Season with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Give a little toss again to combine!
5. Spice It Up (Optional):
If you like a little kick, now is the time to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Toss it once more to ensure they’re mixed in well.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your pasta salad with a few extra fresh basil leaves for that pretty touch. You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance those flavors even more.
Enjoy this refreshing and colorful salad at your next summer lunch, potluck, or light dinner! 🥗🌞
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great for holding the ingredients, you can substitute it with any small pasta shape such as fusilli, rotini, or even penne. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results!
Can I Make This Caprese Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! It’s a fantastic dish for meal prep. Just make it up to a day in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for about 3 days. Just note that the pasta will absorb some of the dressing over time, so you may want to add a little extra olive oil or vinegar when serving leftovers.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?
If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can use regular mozzarella cheese, cubed, or even feta cheese for a tangy twist. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning since feta can be saltier than mozzarella!
