Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese pasta salad brings back memories of a summer lunch I had on a quiet terrace overlooking a garden filled with tomato vines and basil pots and the chef brought out a plate that looked simple but tasted like sunshine and ever since that day I’ve chased that flavor by blending juicy tomatoes creamy mozzarella and fresh basil into my pasta dishes and this salad captures it perfectly.

I love how it comes together so easily and still feels like something you’d enjoy at a countryside café and the balsamic drizzle the bite of garlic and the softness of the mozzarella pearls make it feel rich without being heavy and it’s now one of my go-to recipes for anything from quick lunches to sharing at get-togethers.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Spaghetti – A classic pasta that provides a soft yet sturdy base
• Cherry tomatoes – Sweet juicy and bursting with summer freshness
• Mozzarella pearls – Creamy and mild adding the signature Caprese touch
• Fresh basil – Brings that iconic fragrance and vibrant green color
• Olive oil – Helps bring everything together with richness and silkiness
• Garlic – Adds depth and a bit of heat to the flavor
• Balsamic glaze – A finishing touch that brings sweetness and tang
• Salt and black pepper – To enhance and balance all the flavors

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To boil the pasta perfectly until al dente
• Colander – To drain and cool the spaghetti quickly
• Mixing bowl – To gently toss all the salad components together
• Sharp knife – For slicing tomatoes and chopping fresh basil
• Garlic press or microplane – To evenly distribute fresh garlic flavor
• Tongs or salad servers – For tossing the salad without breaking the pasta

Instructions

Step 1:

I begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the spaghetti until it’s just al dente then I drain it and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.

Step 2:

While the pasta cools I slice the cherry tomatoes in halves and set them aside and I also chop the fresh basil roughly so the flavor can really mingle in the salad.

Step 3:

I add the cooled pasta to a mixing bowl then toss in the tomatoes mozzarella pearls and chopped basil and I drizzle the olive oil over everything and gently stir to combine.

Step 4:

I grate or press one garlic clove right into the mix and season with salt and pepper then I give it another gentle toss making sure the garlic flavor is balanced throughout.

Step 5:

Finally I drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze across the top just before serving and I sometimes garnish with a few whole basil leaves for an extra touch of beauty.

Tips

If you don’t have balsamic glaze you can reduce regular balsamic vinegar over low heat until thick and syrupy and sometimes I like to swap the spaghetti for orzo or fusilli to change up the texture and if you’re serving it for a party I recommend chilling it for 30 minutes so the flavors really settle in.

Ways to Serve

This Caprese pasta salad is great on its own as a light lunch or served next to grilled chicken or fish and I also love making it for brunches picnics or anytime I need a refreshing side dish that still feels special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Caprese pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes and I often do just keep the balsamic glaze off until right before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Can I use a different pasta for Caprese pasta salad?

Definitely and short pastas like penne or fusilli work great if you prefer them.

Does Caprese pasta salad need to be served cold?

It can be served cold or at room temperature and I personally love it slightly chilled but not too cold.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Caprese pasta salad a try! It’s one of those dishes that tastes like summer in every bite and I’d love to hear how yours turns out or how you made it your own. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next warm-weather gathering!

Happy Cooking!

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