The Best Caprese Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect balance of fresh ingredients and satisfying flavors. The creamy mozzarella balls and avocado add richness, while the cherry tomatoes and basil bring a fresh, herbal note. The dressing, made with peach balsamic and lemon juice, adds a touch of sweetness and tang that complements the whole dish. It’s easy to make, perfect for warm weather, and is great for potlucks, picnics, or a casual dinner. Plus, it can be made ahead and served chilled!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved if large
• 1 shallot, chopped
• Salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste
• 1 pound short-cut pasta
• 2 cups mozzarella balls (marinated, if you can find them)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 avocados, diced or sliced

For the Dressing:

• 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup peach balsamic or balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 shallot, sliced
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon all-spice
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the Tomatoes and Shallots: In a large pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped shallot. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, just until the tomatoes start to soften. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, peach balsamic or regular balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, sliced shallot, chopped garlic, all-spice, cayenne pepper, and fresh basil. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed tomatoes and shallots, mozzarella balls, chopped basil, and avocado. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled salad. Garnish with extra fresh basil or mozzarella if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Swap mozzarella for burrata for a creamier, richer texture, or try a vegan cheese alternative.
• Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or a different shape like fusilli or penne if you prefer.
• Fruits: Add some diced peaches or even strawberries to enhance the salad’s sweetness and bring in a seasonal twist.
• Greens: Toss in some spinach or arugula for a more robust salad base.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Caprese pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to meld together as it sits.
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed chilled, but you can also serve it at room temperature. If you’d like to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds, then toss with a little extra olive oil.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead. Just wait to add the avocado until shortly before serving to prevent it from browning.

2. What type of pasta works best for this salad?

Short-cut pasta like farfalle, fusilli, or penne works well in this recipe. Any pasta that holds the dressing and pairs well with fresh ingredients is a great choice.

3. Can I substitute the peach balsamic vinegar?

Yes, you can use regular balsamic vinegar or even red wine vinegar if you prefer a sharper taste.

4. Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?

Fresh basil gives the salad its bright, herbal flavor, but you can substitute dried basil if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil.

5. Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu would be great additions if you want to turn this into a more substantial meal.

6. How do I keep the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, toss it with a little lemon juice or add it just before serving.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this salad gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Otherwise, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

8. Can I use a different fruit for the dressing?

If you can’t find peach balsamic vinegar, try using a different flavored vinegar like raspberry or fig for a unique twist.

9. How can I make this salad spicier?

Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or chili flakes in the dressing or sauté a chopped fresh chili along with the tomatoes and shallots.

10. How long will leftovers last?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to store the dressing separately if you’re making it in advance.

Conclusion

Caprese Pasta Salad is a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and fresh ingredients that come together in a flavorful and satisfying dish. The combination of mozzarella, avocado, tomatoes, and basil, paired with a deliciously tangy dressing, makes it a perfect summer dish or a delightful side for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, and the variations make it adaptable to different tastes. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

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