Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Tossing · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
This Caprese Pasta Salad combines al dente pasta, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, creating a refreshing dish perfect for any festive occasion.
As the leaves begin to turn and the chill of autumn settles in here in New York City, I've been thinking a lot about vibrant dishes that celebrate the bounty of the season. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I've been leaning toward recipes that feel fresh yet comforting. One such dish that has captured my heart is this delicious Caprese Pasta Salad. It perfectly combines al dente pasta with ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella, making it an ideal side dish or a light main course for any festive gathering.
A Fresh Addition to Your Holiday Table
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of autumn with fresh ingredients.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for festive gatherings.
- Can be served as a side dish or a light main course.
- Versatile; customize with additional ingredients to suit your taste.
- A salad that tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious Caprese Pasta Salad:
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 ounces of rotini pasta (or your pasta of choice)
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
Creamy Elements
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
- 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, torn into smaller pieces
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create a vibrant and flavorful Caprese Pasta Salad.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. I always follow this step closely-pasta that's cooked to the perfect texture will truly elevate your dish. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, take the time to prep your ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes, letting their juicy sweetness shine through. Drain your mozzarella balls and, if they're large, cut them in half or quarters. I find that just the right amount of size makes them burst with flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. The nutty aroma of the oil combined with the sharpness of the balsamic creates the perfect balance for this salad.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine. I can't stress enough how important it is to toss gently-nobody wants a mushy salad!
Step 5: Chill
Allow the salad to sit for about 15-30 minutes at room temperature. This gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully, making each bite delightful and satisfying.
Step 6: Serve
When ready to serve, give it a quick stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and enjoy. You can even top it with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, especially during the colder months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Pasta: Be vigilant about cooking the pasta to an al dente texture; it will continue to soften as it sits.
- Using Hard Cheese: While it may sound tempting, hard cheeses will overpower the fresh, light flavors of the salad. Stick to mozzarella!
- Forgetting to Season: Don't skip the salt and pepper; they are crucial for enhancing the flavors of your ingredients.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Herb Alternatives: If fresh basil isn't available, feel free to substitute with arugula or fresh spinach for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this salad a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
- Customization: Don't hesitate to add other seasonal ingredients-think roasted bell peppers or olives-to suit your tastes!
Variations
- Substitute rotini with penne or farfalle pasta.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Incorporate diced avocado for creaminess.
- Include olives for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve
- Serve chilled for a refreshing side dish at gatherings.
- Pair with grilled meats for a complete meal.
- Top with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.
- Garnish with extra basil leaves for a fresh look.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, no reheating necessary.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and fresh ingredients may be compromised.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Making this Caprese Pasta Salad reminded me just how much I appreciate the bright flavors of fresh ingredients, especially during the fall season. I've found that a bit of patience in allowing the salad to rest really pays off in creating a harmonious blend of tastes.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~320 calories · 10g protein · 40g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Vibrant Caprese Pasta Salad for Autumn
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain your mozzarella balls, cutting them if they’re large.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
- Allow the salad to sit for about 15-30 minutes at room temperature for the flavors to meld.
- When ready to serve, give it a quick stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and enjoy.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is recommended for its ability to hold sauce, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free varieties.
2. How long can I store the Caprese Pasta Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen and enhance over time.
3. Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for about 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it more delicious. However, you can serve it immediately if you're short on time.
4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve it. It's a great make-ahead dish!
5. What can I add to customize the salad?
You can add seasonal ingredients like roasted bell peppers, olives, or even arugula for a different flavor profile. Get creative based on your preferences!
