Caprese Pasta Salad with Grilled Steak and Shrimp for a Fresh Summer Meal

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad

• Ease of preparation: This Caprese pasta salad is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time, which makes it perfect for quick meals. With just a boil of the pasta and simple assembly of fresh ingredients, you can have this vibrant dish ready in under 25 minutes ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Health benefits: The salad is packed with fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella, providing a nutritious balance of vitamins, antioxidants, and protein. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, making this Caprese pasta salad not only delicious but supportive of a wholesome, balanced diet.
• Versatility: This recipe easily adapts to various dietary preferences. Whether you need gluten-free options, plant-based alternatives, or a lighter low-calorie version, swapping ingredients like pasta type or cheese ensures everyone can enjoy this fresh salad without compromising flavor.
• Distinctive flavor: The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, fragrant fresh basil, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic vinegar delivers a unique and refreshing taste. This vibrant medley makes every bite of this Caprese pasta salad a delightful experience that stands apart from typical pasta dishes.

Essential Ingredients for Caprese Pasta Salad

• 1 pound (approximately 450g) short pasta such as fusilli, orecchiette, penne, cavatappi, spiral, or shells – sturdy base that captures dressing and ingredients.
• 16 ounces (450g) mozzarella balls (ciliegine or pearls), drained and halved if necessary – creamy protein and texture contrast.
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, slivered or chopped – offers aromatic freshness and herbaceous flavor.
• ⅓ cup (80ml) extra virgin olive oil – enhances richness and binds ingredients with fruity notes.
• 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar or golden balsamic vinegar – provides balanced tang and sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water – brings out flavors.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – adds subtle heat and depth.
• 1 garlic clove, pressed or minced – infuses a mild pungency into the dressing.

Special Dietary Options:

• Vegan: Use plant-based mozzarella substitutes or diced tofu, and ensure balsamic vinegar is vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-free: Substitute traditional pasta with certified gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Low-calorie: Opt for whole wheat or spiralized zucchini noodles and select reduced-fat or part-skim mozzarella alternatives.

How to Prepare the Perfect Caprese Pasta Salad: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and generously salt it with kosher salt. Add your choice of short pasta and cook until just al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures the pasta remains firm and doesn’t become mushy after mixing. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta briefly under cold water to cool it and stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Second Step: Prepare Fresh Ingredients

While the pasta cooks, rinse and halve the cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness in each bite. Drain the mozzarella balls; if they are large, halve them as well for better distribution. Sliver or chop the fresh basil leaves to release their fragrant aroma and make the salad visually appealing.

Third Step: Combine Core Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Gently toss the ingredients to blend flavors evenly without squishing the delicate mozzarella or tomatoes.

Fourth Step: Prepare the Dressing

In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white or golden balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture emulsifies and develops a slightly creamy texture. This dressing perfectly balances acidity, richness, and seasoning for the Caprese pasta salad.

Fifth Step: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently yet thoroughly to ensure every pasta piece and vegetable is coated. The dressing not only tastes delicious but helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Step: Rest and Serve

Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to give the pasta time to absorb the dressing and the tomato juices. This resting period enhances the flavor harmony and texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil leaves for an eye-catching presentation.

For perfect pasta results, see this helpful guide on how to cook pasta.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Caprese Pasta Salad

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

• Substitute traditional mozzarella with grilled chicken slices for extra protein.
• Use chickpeas or beans for a plant-based protein boost.
• Replace mozzarella with vegan alternatives or marinated tofu for dairy-free diets.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

• Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to vary sweetness and texture.
• Try pesto dressing or lemon vinaigrette instead of balsamic glaze for a fresh twist.
• Add leafy greens like fresh arugula or spinach to increase fiber and micronutrients.
• Use gluten-free pasta options to cater to gluten sensitivities or allergies.

These modifications keep the core flavors intact while offering flexibility for various tastes and dietary needs.

Mastering Caprese Pasta Salad: Advanced Tips and Variations

• Pro cooking techniques: Use fresh or homemade pasta for improved texture; shock cooked pasta in ice water to maintain firmness before mixing.
• Flavor variations: Add a pinch of garlic powder or chili flakes for a subtle kick. Experiment with herbs such as oregano or thyme in place of basil to introduce new notes.
• Presentation tips: Display in clear glass bowls or layered parfait glasses to showcase colorful ingredients and vibrant ingredients. Garnish with whole fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of quality balsamic reduction for visual appeal.
• Make-ahead options: Prepare salad components and dressing separately. Combine right before serving to maintain crispness and freshness of ingredients.

How to Store Caprese Pasta Salad: Best Practices

Refrigeration

Store the Caprese pasta salad covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This preserves freshness while preventing the salad from becoming soggy.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended because fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil lose texture and flavor upon thawing.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. If reheating is necessary, warm gently and add fresh basil just before serving for the best flavor.

Meal Prep Considerations

Store dressing separately from pasta and vegetables if preparing in advance. This helps prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture and keeps flavors vibrant and textures crisp.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Caprese Pasta Salad

caprese pasta salad

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• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

🍅 Caprese Pasta Salad offers a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make meal perfect for summer days and picnics.
🥗 This recipe combines mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil with a light dressing for a flavorful and refreshing dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound short pasta

16 ounces mozzarella balls

3 cups cherry tomatoes

½ cup fresh basil leaves

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 garlic clove

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Instructions

First Step: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and generously salt it with kosher salt. Add your choice of short pasta and cook until just al dente, usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. This ensures the pasta remains firm and doesn’t become mushy after mixing. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta briefly under cold water to cool it and stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Second Step: Prepare Fresh Ingredients While the pasta cooks, rinse and halve the cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness in each bite. Drain the mozzarella balls; if they are large, halve them as well for better distribution. Sliver or chop the fresh basil leaves to release their fragrant aroma and make the salad visually appealing.

Third Step: Combine Core Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Gently toss the ingredients to blend flavors evenly without squishing the delicate mozzarella or tomatoes.

Fourth Step: Prepare the Dressing In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white or golden balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture emulsifies and develops a slightly creamy texture. This dressing perfectly balances acidity, richness, and seasoning for the Caprese pasta salad.

Fifth Step: Dress the Salad Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently yet thoroughly to ensure every pasta piece and vegetable is coated. The dressing not only tastes delicious but helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Step: Rest and Serve Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to give the pasta time to absorb the dressing and the tomato juices. This resting period enhances the flavor harmony and texture. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil leaves for an eye-catching presentation.

Notes

🍲 Rinse pasta after cooking to prevent stickiness and help the dressing coat the noodles better.
🍯 Use white or golden balsamic vinegar for a sweeter, lighter flavor and a bright salad color.
🌿 Fresh mozzarella is preferred, but feta or goat cheese can be good alternatives for different flavor profiles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boil, Toss
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 359 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 274 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 37 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 16 mg

Keywords: Caprese, Pasta Salad, Steak, Shrimp