The Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta, creating a perfect harmony of taste, color, and texture. With juicy grape tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a zesty balsamic dressing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser whether you’re bringing it to a picnic, serving it at a family dinner, or just craving something bright and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare but packed with so much character, making it an absolute favorite to keep on your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this salad plays an essential role, from the al dente pasta providing substance and bite, to the fresh vegetables and herbs delivering bursts of flavor and vibrant color. The balsamic vinegar and olive oil tie everything together with their rich, tangy dressings that elevate the dish beautifully.
- 4 cups uncooked penne: Provides a sturdy, satisfying base that holds onto all the flavors nicely.
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella or Bocconcini: Adds creamy texture and a mild, milky contrast to the fresh veggies.
- 1/2 small red onion (chopped): Offers a subtle sharpness and crunch that balances sweetness.
- Handful grape tomatoes (halved): Burst with juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (or to taste): Brings tangy depth that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or to taste): Smooths the flavors together with a rich, fruity undertone.
- Large handful fresh basil (torn): Adds a fragrant, herbal brightness that’s signature to any Caprese dish.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, to taste): Brings an extra layer of freshness and a mild peppery note.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt infuses flavor right into the pasta as it cooks, which is key to a tasty salad. Cook the penne according to the package directions until al dente—tender but still with a bit of a bite. Once ready, drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Fresh Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, chop your red onion finely for a subtle but noticeable crunch. Halve the grape tomatoes to release their juiciness and maximize flavor absorption. Tear the fresh basil by hand—this helps release the oils and aroma better than chopping finely. Chop up some fresh parsley to add a new layer of herbal brightness.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Once the pasta is cooled and drained well, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Gently add the fresh mozzarella or Bocconcini pearls, the prepared red onion, tomatoes, basil, and parsley. Pour over the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, then toss everything gently but thoroughly so the dressing coats every bite beautifully. Taste and adjust your vinegar, oil, or seasoning to suit your preferences.
Step 4: Chill or Serve Immediately
For the most balanced flavors, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about an hour so the ingredients can meld together. However, if you’re hungry right away, this salad also shines when served fresh.
How to Serve Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, try garnishing your salad with extra torn basil leaves or a few whole bocconcini balls. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze right before serving adds a glossy finish and a touch of sweetness that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs beautifully with simple grilled chicken, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. It also works wonderfully alongside barbecue favorites or as part of a light summer buffet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or special occasion, serve the Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe in elegant glass bowls or individual mason jars to show off the vibrant colors. Adding edible flowers or arranging small skewers of mozzarella, tomato, and basil around the plate makes for a charming, eye-catching presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 to 3 days, when all the fresh ingredients still taste their brightest and the pasta hasn’t soaked up too much dressing.
Freezing
This salad doesn’t freeze well because the fresh veggies and mozzarella lose their texture when frozen and thawed. I recommend making just enough to enjoy fresh or storing leftovers in the fridge only.
Reheating
This is a cold pasta salad meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer, you can leave it out for 10-15 minutes before serving to take the chill off, which helps flavors shine even more.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for this salad thanks to its shape and sturdy texture, other short pasta like rotini, farfalle, or fusilli also work wonderfully in the Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe.
Is fresh mozzarella better than Bocconcini for this salad?
Both fresh mozzarella and Bocconcini are delicious options. Bocconcini are smaller, bite-sized balls which make tossing easier and provide consistent distribution throughout the salad, but fresh mozzarella torn into chunks works just as well.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute the mozzarella with your favorite plant-based cheese or marinated tofu cubes. The fresh vegetables and balsamic dressing will still make it incredibly flavorful.
How long does the salad keep its freshness?
The salad is best eaten within 2-3 days when stored properly in the fridge. Beyond that, the fresh ingredients may become soggy and the flavors less vibrant.
Can I add protein to make this a full meal?
Definitely! Adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can turn this Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe into a more substantial meal without compromising its fresh and bright qualities.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is a delightful celebration of fresh, simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and always impresses whether on a casual lunch table or a summer gathering. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to pasta salad that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Balsamic Caprese Pasta Salad that combines al dente penne with fresh mozzarella, ripe grape tomatoes, red onion, and fragrant basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 4 cups uncooked penne
Salad Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella or Bocconcini
- 1/2 small red onion, chopped
- Handful grape tomatoes, halved
- Large handful fresh basil, torn
- Fresh parsley, chopped, to taste
Dressing
- 4 teaspoons balsamic vinegar (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or to taste)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Prepare Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, chop the red onion, halve the grape tomatoes, tear the basil leaves, and chop fresh parsley.
- Drain and Rinse Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Ensure the pasta is well drained.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with fresh mozzarella pieces, chopped onion, halved tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, torn basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently toss all ingredients together.
- Adjust and Chill: Taste the salad and adjust the vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to your preference. You may either serve immediately or chill the salad in the refrigerator for about an hour to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh mozzarella or Bocconcini. If using regular mozzarella, drain excess moisture before adding.
- Chilling the pasta salad enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing, but it can also be enjoyed right after tossing.
- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick if desired.
- Substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini for variety.
