If there’s ever a dish that signals the start of picnic season for me, it’s this Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad. Bright basil pesto, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls come together with a tangle of pasta for an irresistible, summer-ready salad. It’s got everything: color, freshness, and a punchy flavor that will make everyone come back for seconds (and probably thirds). Whether you serve it at your next barbecue or make a big batch to enjoy all week, this is a recipe you’ll find yourself craving over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The short ingredient list for Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad might seem simple, but every single element is chosen for maximum impact. Each one brings something important to the bowl—whether it’s creamy, zesty, juicy, or herby goodness. Here’s what you’ll need and why you don’t want to skip a thing:
- Pasta: Rotini or bowtie shapes are perfect, their nooks holding onto every bit of basil pesto and creamy cheese.
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved for juicy pops of sweetness—they add bright color and flavor to every bite.
- Mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella: These small, creamy bites work best, bringing that classic Caprese touch.
- Basil pesto: The heart of the flavor; use the best quality you can find (or homemade if you have time!).
- Olive oil: Helps the salad glisten and rounds out the basil and cheese with a lush finish.
- Balsamic glaze (optional): Just a drizzle offers tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the savory ingredients.
- Fresh basil: Chopped for a big burst of herbal aroma and even more color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and making them sing.
How to Make Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
Start by boiling your favorite short pasta shapes according to the package instructions. Once they’re perfectly al dente, drain them thoroughly and rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps your pasta salad from turning mushy later. Make sure the pasta is fully cooled—this helps your salad stay crisp and fresh.
Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your cooled pasta. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls (or cubes), and that heavenly chopped basil. These foundational flavors will set the stage for what’s coming next.
Step 3: Add the Pesto and Olive Oil
Spoon in your basil pesto and drizzle over the olive oil. Now, toss everything together until every noodle and veggie is glistening with that velvety, herby dressing. Your kitchen will instantly smell incredible.
Step 4: Season and Finish
Season your Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If you want to dial up the flavor even more, now’s the time to drizzle on that optional balsamic glaze—it adds just the right tangy edge.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover your salad and slip it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets all those vibrant flavors mingle and takes this salad from tasty to totally irresistible. Give it one final toss before you serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Garnishes
A handful of torn fresh basil or a few more mozzarella pearls on top makes your Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad look as inviting as it tastes. A light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or just a touch more balsamic glaze can really finish it off with a professional flourish.
Side Dishes
This salad is a superstar at any picnic or potluck, but it also makes a lovely side next to grilled chicken, steak, or even roasted vegetables. For a vegetarian meal, serve it with crusty bread and a crisp green salad to round out the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad in individual jars or cups for easy, portable portions at gatherings. For special occasions, arrange it on a big platter, layering extra fresh tomatoes and basil for a colorful centerpiece that’s almost too pretty to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once everyone’s had their fill, pop any extra Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a fantastic lunchbox or quick dinner option.
Freezing
While fresh mozzarella and tomatoes don’t freeze well (they’ll lose their vibrant texture and flavor), the salad base without those ingredients can be frozen. For best quality, add the cheese and tomatoes just before serving after defrosting.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad—it’s meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, let the salad sit out for 10–15 minutes to take the chill off before serving for a more intense flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While rotini and bowtie are great for holding pesto, any short pasta like penne or fusilli works well in Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad. The important part is to pick a shape that’ll catch all the delicious dressing and cheese.
What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
No worries—this ingredient is completely optional! The salad will still be bright and tasty without it but if you want that sweet-tangy finish, try a splash of balsamic vinegar or make a simple glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until syrupy.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, you can turn Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad vegan by skipping the mozzarella pearls or using a plant-based alternative, and making sure your pesto doesn’t include Parmesan cheese. There are plenty of dairy-free pesto options out there!
How far ahead can I prepare this salad?
You can make Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad a day in advance. Just keep it chilled and give it a toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. If you prep it more than a day ahead, consider adding the fresh basil right before serving for peak flavor.
Can I add protein to make it a main dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, sliced steak, or even chickpeas are excellent additions that transform this into a hearty Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad worthy of main course status without losing its fresh appeal.
Final Thoughts
There are so many reasons to love making Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad, it’s hard to list them all! With its cheerful colors, lush flavors, and crazy-easy prep, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to share at every warm-weather gathering. Give it a try—you may just discover your new favorite salad.
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Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with the addition of pesto and pasta. It’s perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish for a barbecue.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces cooked pasta (such as rotini or bowtie)
Caprese Salad Mix:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- Add Dressing: Add the pesto and olive oil, then toss until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Optional Drizzle: If using, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
- Chill: Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
Notes
- Great as a side dish or light main course.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- This salad can be made a day in advance—just toss again before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
