Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad blends ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and fragrant basil with perfectly cooked pasta for a bright, flavorful dish.

Tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette, this salad is light, flavorful, and ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side for any meal – a favorite Recipes for Pasta Salad!

Bursting with summer flavors, it’s a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that everyone will love.

A special thanks to Barilla for this picnic recipe.

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What Is Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, Italian-inspired dish that combines the key ingredients of a traditional Caprese salad — ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil — with al dente pasta.

The salad is typically tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette or olive oil, bringing together the rich flavors of the tomatoes, the creaminess of the mozzarella, and the aromatic basil.

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It’s a refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for warm-weather meals, picnics, or as a side for a variety of entrees.

What To Serve with Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes, offering a refreshing, light complement to more substantial main courses. Here are some great options to serve with it:

• Grilled Chicken – The juicy, smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the fresh and vibrant flavors of the salad.
• Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and complements the Italian-inspired flavors.
• Grilled Fish – Light fish like salmon or tilapia brings balance to the meal with its delicate texture and subtle taste.
• Steak – A hearty grilled steak provides a rich contrast to the fresh, bright salad.
• Bruschetta – Another classic Italian dish, bruschetta, adds a flavorful, crunchy appetizer to the meal.
• Prosciutto and Melon – This savory and sweet combination works as a refreshing side to enhance the Caprese salad.
• Roasted Vegetables – Lightly seasoned, roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers add a warm, hearty element.

These options make for a well-rounded meal that can suit casual gatherings or more formal dinners.

Pasta Salad Ingredients

For the full ingredient measurements, scroll on down to the caprese pasta salad recipe card.

• 1 box Barilla Protein+ Cellentani pasta
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 pints grape tomatoes, mixed color, halved
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 8 basil leaves, julienned
• 2 cups small mozzarella cheese balls, halved
• salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste

How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain it.

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the pasta and spread it on a sheet tray to cool. Set aside.

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In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, lemon juice, basil, remaining olive oil, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the cooled pasta and stir to combine.