Caprese Pasta Salad
To make Caprese Pasta Salad, cook the pasta, cool it slightly, toss it with tomato, mozzarella, and basil, and dress it while the noodles can still absorb some flavor. It works because the pasta gets seasoned before the chill dulls everything down.
This Caprese pasta salad takes the classic combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil and tosses it with cooled pasta for a heartier side dish. It's simple, fresh, and best made with good tomatoes.
It's a good summer side dish or potluck contribution. Toss everything together once the pasta has cooled so the cheese doesn't melt.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces short pasta
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups tomato
- 1 cup mozzarella
- 1 cup basil
- 1/3 cup dressing or vinaigrette
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1Cook the pasta in well-salted water until just past al dente, then drain and rinse briefly to stop the carryover cooking.
- 2Combine the cooled pasta with tomato, mozzarella, and basil in a large bowl.
- 3Toss with the dressing while the pasta is still slightly warm so it actually absorbs some flavor.
- 4Chill for at least 20 minutes if you want the flavors to settle together.
- 5Taste again before serving because cold pasta always wants a little more salt or acid.
Pro Tips
- Salt the pasta water properly or the salad tastes sleepy no matter what else you do.
- Dress once while warm and again lightly before serving if it dried out.
- Keep the add-ins bite-size so each forkful has a chance at balance.
Substitutions
Storage Instructions
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Make Ahead
This gets better after a short chill, so it is a strong make-ahead option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes. This gets better after a short chill, so it is a strong make-ahead option.
How do I store leftover Caprese Pasta Salad?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Caprese Pasta Salad?
Usually not if the recipe depends on crisp vegetables or creamy dressing. Caprese Pasta Salad is better refrigerated than frozen.
What should I serve with Caprese Pasta Salad?
Caprese Pasta Salad works best with simple sides or toppings that support the main texture instead of competing with it.