Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

This creamy Caprese pasta salad transforms the classic Italian appetizer into a satisfying meal that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners. The combination of tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a dish that celebrates simple, fresh flavors.

I first created this recipe for a summer garden party where I needed something substantial that could sit out without wilting. The guests devoured it so quickly I barely got to enjoy any myself. Now I always make a double batch to ensure leftovers.

Ingredients

• Pasta: small shapes like fusilli or orecchiette catch dressing in their crevices
• Mozzarella balls: ciliegine or pearl size provide the perfect creamy bite in every forkful
• Cherry tomatoes: select firm bright colored ones for the best flavor and texture
• Fresh basil: look for vibrant green leaves without any browning or wilting
• Extra virgin olive oil: splurge on a good quality one as it forms the base of your dressing
• White balsamic vinegar: offers a milder sweeter tanginess than regular balsamic
• Kosher salt: the coarser texture dissolves nicely and enhances flavors without being too harsh
• Black pepper: freshly ground delivers more aromatic compounds than pre ground
• Garlic: one fresh clove provides just enough punch without overpowering the delicate flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook and Cool the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil before adding salt. The water should taste like the sea to properly season the pasta from within. Cook pasta just until al dente usually a minute less than package directions suggest. Drain promptly and rinse briefly with cold water to halt cooking. A slight rinse is acceptable here since the dressing will adhere better to pasta that isn't overly starchy.

Prepare the Mozzarella and Tomatoes:

While the pasta cooks multitask by preparing your cheese and vegetables. Halving the mozzarella balls creates more surface area for the dressing to cling to and ensures you get creamy cheese in every bite. Similarly cutting cherry tomatoes releases their juices which will mingle with the dressing creating a more flavorful sauce.

Combine Ingredients:

Add cooled pasta to your waiting tomatoes and mozzarella. The pasta should be room temperature not hot which would melt the cheese or cold which would prevent proper absorption of the dressing. Scatter fresh basil throughout rather than mixing vigorously to prevent bruising the delicate leaves.

Make the Dressing:

Combine all dressing ingredients in a vessel that allows for thorough mixing. The garlic should be very finely minced to distribute its flavor without leaving large pieces that might overwhelm a single bite. Whisking vigorously creates an emulsion that will coat the pasta evenly rather than separating.

Dress the Salad and Serve:

Pour dressing over the salad ingredients gradually while gently tossing to ensure everything is evenly coated. The initial taste test is crucial allow yourself to adjust seasonings now before the flavors meld. The waiting period allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and the flavors to harmonize creating a more cohesive dish.

The white balsamic vinegar is my secret weapon in this recipe. Unlike regular balsamic which would discolor the pasta and overwhelm the delicate flavors this lighter variety adds just enough acidity without taking center stage. My Italian grandmother would approve of this modern take on her beloved Caprese combination.

Storage Tips

This pasta salad maintains its quality beautifully when stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually improve after the first day as the pasta absorbs more of the dressing. If you notice the salad becoming a bit dry after refrigeration drizzle a small amount of olive oil and give it a gentle toss before serving again.

Variations Worth Trying

Consider customizing this versatile salad to make it your own. Add diced avocado for extra creaminess pine nuts for crunch or arugula for a peppery bite. For a more substantial meal incorporate grilled chicken or salami. You can also experiment with different cheese options like tiny cubes of provolone or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Caprese pasta salad alongside grilled Italian sausages or lemon herb chicken for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a beautiful presentation consider serving it in a large shallow bowl garnished with whole basil leaves and a drizzle of high quality olive oil. This dish shines as part of an alfresco dining experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I keep the pasta from sticking together?

After cooking, rinse the pasta lightly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. You can also toss it with a small amount of olive oil if not assembling immediately.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or orecchiette work well. Choose a shape that holds the dressing and ingredients for the best results.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Absolutely! The salad tastes even better after sitting for about 30 minutes or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a toss before serving.

→ What is a good substitute for white balsamic vinegar?

If you don’t have white balsamic, regular balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as alternatives, but they may alter the flavor slightly.

→ How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Taste after mixing and adjust with more salt, pepper, or a small drizzle of olive oil and vinegar based on your preference.