Caprese Pasta Salad (Print Version)

Refreshing pasta tossed with tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic dressing.

# Components:

→ Pasta

01 - 10.5 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
02 - 1 tsp salt for boiling water

→ Vegetables & Herbs

03 - 9 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 small clove garlic, minced
05 - 1 oz fresh basil leaves, torn

→ Cheese

06 - 7 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and halved

→ Dressing

07 - 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
09 - 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
10 - ½ tsp sea salt
11 - ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.
02 - Combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and torn basil leaves in a large salad bowl.
03 - Incorporate mozzarella balls into the salad bowl with the vegetables and herbs.
04 - Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, sea salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or jar until emulsified.
05 - Add the cooled pasta to the salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine evenly.
06 - Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes better at room temperature, so you can make it ahead without worry.
  • The ingredients are simple but the flavors feel restaurant-worthy.
  • It works as a side dish or a full meal depending on your mood.
  • Leftovers actually improve overnight as the pasta soaks up the dressing.
02 -
  • Rinse the pasta under cold water immediately after draining or it will clump together and absorb too much dressing.
  • Don't skip the honey in the dressing; it softens the vinegar's sharpness and makes the whole dish taste more cohesive.
  • Add the basil just before serving if making ahead, or it will darken and lose its fresh aroma.
03 -
  • Let the mozzarella come to room temperature before tossing; cold cheese doesn't release its creamy flavor as well.
  • Reserve a few tablespoons of pasta water and stir it in if the salad looks dry after chilling.
  • Use a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for visual contrast and a slightly sweeter, less acidic flavor profile.
Return