Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad

Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad ~ 

The vibrant flavors of classic Caprese salad in an easy-to-make pasta dish that’s always a crowd favorite! 

Serve with garlic bread or a leafy green salad.

A Favorite Summer Dish

I like this Caprese pasta salad recipe because it’s a perfect summer dish that can be served cold or at room temperature. It’s ideal for summer potlucks or an easy light meal, bringing together fresh ingredients in a refreshing and satisfying way.

Ingredients for Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad

You will need the following: 

• 1 pound farfalle pasta, uncooked
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Ingredient Notes

• Farfalle Pasta: I like to use farfalle (bowtie) pasta because it holds the pesto dressing well. Cavatappi pasta, rotini pasta, or orecchiette pasta are also good options.
• Basil Pesto: For convenience, I used a fresh store-bought pesto, but Homemade Basil Pesto is even better if you have fresh basil on hand.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh Tomatoes: I prefer the size of grape tomatoes to cherry tomatoes for this recipe, but it really makes no difference which you use.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For best results, fresh mozzarella, including fresh mozzarella balls or mozzarella pearls is ideal. For a dairy-free option, use vegan mozzarella. Miyoko’s brand makes a good dairy-free ball of fresh mozzarella cheese that works well for this recipe. 
• Fresh Basil – Fragrant basil adds the signature brightness of a Caprese salad that only comes from fresh herbs.

Optional Add-Ins

• Balsamic Vinegar: Drizzle balsamic glaze or balsamic vinaigrette for tanginess.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add for an intense tomato flavor.
• Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add a crunchy texture.

How to Make Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad

STEP ONE: Cook the Pasta. Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente consistency. Drain and rinse with cold water. Transfer to a large bowl.

STEP TWO: Prepare the Dressing. In a small bowl, combine the pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour over the pasta and toss to coat.

STEP THREE: Add Vegetables and Cheese. Gently stir in the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.

STEP FOUR: Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle with chopped basil and serve immediately.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• Complete steps 1 and 2 and refrigerate. When ready to serve, drizzle lightly with olive oil to refresh the pasta, then add the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The next day, this cold pasta makes a refreshing light lunch.

More Recipes You’ll Love!

• Greek Pasta Salad
• Homemade Pesto Sauce
• Pesto Gnocchi Salad
• Grape Tomato Salad
• Tomato Orzo Salad

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