This Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic!
I simply love how quick it is to whip up! Just combine all the yummy ingredients, and you’ve got a dish that’s both tasty and beautiful. It’s a crowd-pleaser, for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape is great for holding onto the dressing. If you want a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free pasta, or even spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh yellow or orange tomatoes can add a sweet twist. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes, just drain them well.
Fresh Mozzarella: Look for bocconcini or ciliegine for bite-sized pieces. If you’re vegan, try using tofu or plant-based mozzarella instead.
Fresh Basil: Basil brings a lovely aroma and flavor, but you can substitute it with fresh parsley or even spinach in a pinch, though it won’t have the same taste.
Creamy Italian Dressing: If you don’t have this on hand, a mix of yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder can offer a tasty substitute. You can also use any other dressing you enjoy!
How Do You Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta just right can be tricky! Here’s how to get it perfectly al dente, which means it’s firm but not hard when you bite it.
- Use plenty of water and add a good amount of salt. It should taste like the sea!
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time. Start checking a minute or two early — you want it tender but still holding its shape.
- When it’s done, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps it stay firm for the salad.
By keeping it al dente, your pasta salad will be deliciously textured and not mushy!
Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup creamy Italian dressing or a mix of mayonnaise and Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for chilling. So, in about 45 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add a pinch of salt and the uncooked rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until it’s cool. This stops the cooking process and helps keep the pasta perfect for the salad!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed fresh mozzarella, and thinly sliced basil. These vibrant ingredients will give your pasta salad a beautiful look and flavorful profile.
3. Dress It Up:
Now it’s time to add the creamy dressing! Pour the creamy Italian dressing (or your homemade mayo-Italian seasoning mix) over the pasta mixture. If you’d like a little extra tang, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar too. Just remember, it’s optional!
4. Toss Together:
Gently toss all the ingredients together until every piece is well coated with the dressing. Make sure to be gentle so you don’t break up the lovely mozzarella pieces or the tomatoes.
5. Season to Taste:
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors, so taste and see if it needs a little more seasoning!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This will let all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Enjoy:
After chilling, give it a little stir and serve it cold or at room temperature. For a lovely finishing touch, feel free to garnish with additional fresh basil on top!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the rotini pasta with a gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad is great for meal prep! Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use fresh parsley or spinach as a substitute. While it won’t have the same flavor profile, it will still add a nice green element to your salad!
