Easy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Orecchiette works well, but feel free to use any small pasta like farfalle or fusilli! They all hold the dressing nicely. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or quinoa pasta.

Cherry Tomatoes: A colorful mix of tomatoes not only looks pretty but adds depth of flavor. If out of season, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different kick.

Fresh Mozzarella: Bocconcini are perfect, but if you can’t find them, you can use diced mozzarella or even feta for a tangy twist. Keep in mind that feta will change the flavor!

Basil: Fresh basil is key for that classic Caprese taste. If unavailable, try fresh parsley or herbs de Provence, but the flavor will differ slightly.

How Do You Make Sure Your Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking pasta well is crucial! Here are some tips to get it just right:

• Use plenty of salted water—it should taste like the sea. This enhances the pasta flavor.
• Cook until “al dente,” which means it should be firm but not hard. Refer to the package instructions for timing.
• Always rinse the pasta in cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and cool it off for the salad.

Getting the pasta right helps ensure the overall salad taste is spot on. Happy cooking!

Easy Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta:

• 12 ounces orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)

Vegetables:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (a mix of red, yellow, and orange), halved

Cheese:

• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped plus a few whole leaves for garnish
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. If you let it chill for 30 minutes afterwards, it enhances the flavors even more. So, in total, you’ll need approximately 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the orecchiette pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Make sure to drain it well to avoid any excess water in your salad.

2. Mix the Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella balls. Give it a gentle stir to mix them together.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful dressing that brings everything together.

4. Combine Everything:

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture in the large bowl. Add the chopped fresh basil and gently toss everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Season and Garnish:

Take a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Once seasoned, transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with whole basil leaves and, if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

This salad is delightful fresh, but if you have time, letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy this fresh and vibrant dish at lunch or your next potluck!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?

Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can substitute with any small pasta like farfalle, fusilli, or even penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Definitely! You can prepare the pasta salad a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the fresh basil right before serving to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!

What Can I Substitute for Fresh Mozzarella?

If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use diced regular mozzarella or even feta cheese for a tangier flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary slightly!