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The Best Easy Caprese Pasta Salad with Homemade Balsamic Vinaigrette

A close-up of amazing caprese pasta salad featuring fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil.
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This fresh and easy salad combines all the classic flavors of a Caprese Salad with pasta. It is a make-ahead recipe perfect for summer gatherings or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound short pasta (like rotini or farfalle)
  • 2 pints cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 16 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (small, pearl size preferred), drained
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
  4. Pour the prepared balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta and ingredient mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the **Caprese Pasta Salad** for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is a great **make ahead salad** option.
  6. Before serving, taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Drizzle with balsamic glaze, if using. Serve chilled as a refreshing **summer side dish** or **BBQ pasta salad** staple.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use high-quality fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes.
  • If you prefer a tangier finish, use white balsamic vinegar in the dressing.
  • To make this a **Chicken Caprese Pasta Salad**, add 2 cups of cooked, diced chicken breast before serving.
  • If you want a **creamy Caprese pasta salad**, add 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt to the vinaigrette mixture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/caprese-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-summer-side/