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.
![Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad ~ The vibrant flavors of classic Caprese salad in an easy-to-make pasta dish that's always a crowd favorite!](https://thiswifecooks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BBED86BA-E7B5-4DEA-B507-9449AC5D8A57_1_201_a-1024x732.jpg)
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.
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Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente consistency. Drain and rinse with cold water. Transfer to a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine the pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour over the pasta and toss to coat.
- Gently stir in the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle with chopped basil and serve immediately.
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