Go Back
The Caprese salad has its roots firmly planted in Italian cuisine, originating from the island of Capri. Traditionally, this salad is made with fresh mozzarella cheese, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves, drizzled with olive oil and sometimes balsamic vinegar. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Italian culinary philosophy—simplicity and freshness. Over time, this classic salad has evolved, inspiring inventive variations like the Caprese Pasta Salad, which harmoniously marries the ingredients of the Caprese with the heartiness of pasta.

Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Refresh your summer meals with a delightful Caprese Pasta Salad topped with a luscious balsamic glaze. This vibrant dish seamlessly combines the fresh flavors of tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil with hearty pasta, creating a satisfying and colorful meal perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual dinners. Discover the easy steps to prepare this tasty dish, along with helpful tips on ingredient selection and flavor balancing, to impress your guests and enjoy a delicious taste of summer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 oz (225 g) small pasta (like rotini or farfalle)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/3 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

Optional: Red pepper flakes for spice

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool down. Set aside.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half. Drain the mozzarella balls and set them aside. Tear or chop the fresh basil leaves.

      Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and freshly torn basil leaves.

        Dress the Salad: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until well combined.

          Add Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the pasta salad. Toss again lightly to incorporate.

            Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

              Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

                Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or a wholesome main course.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 4-6