Caprese Pasta Salad for Picnics, BBQs, and Easy Dinners
The combination of ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant fresh basil is what makes the classic caprese salad so beloved. But what if we took those same bold flavors and gave them a satisfying, picnic-ready twist?
Enter: Caprese Pasta Salad — a simple, beautiful dish that brings summer to your table any day of the week.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect side for a weekend barbecue, a make-ahead dish for lunch, or just a fresh and easy weeknight dinner, this Caprese Pasta Salad is it. It’s quick to make, endlessly versatile, and looks just as stunning as it tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Vibrant and Flavorful: Juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella with a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and weekly meal prep.
- Customizable: Add protein, greens, or nuts to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: It’s hard to resist this combination of flavors!
Basil is one of the stars of this recipe, and it deserves a little love. This herb brings a sweet, slightly peppery flavor that perfectly balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the mozzarella.
Tips for using basil in this recipe:
- Always use fresh basil – dried just won’t do it justice.
- Tear, don’t chop: Tearing basil by hand helps prevent bruising and releases more of its natural oils.
- Add the basil just before serving for the freshest taste and look.
If you grow basil at home (or have access to a farmer’s market), this salad is one of the best ways to showcase your summer harvest.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (about 3 cups) short pasta (like bowtie or rotini)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (plus more for drizzling)
- 1–2 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta. - Prepare the Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, tear the basil, and prepare your mozzarella. If you’re using a mozzarella ball, dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. - Make the Dressing
Whisk together the olive oil, balsamic glaze, red wine vinegar (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl or jar. Add minced garlic if you’d like a deeper flavor. - Combine Everything
Add the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently to combine. - Finishing Touches
Taste and adjust seasoning. Drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze on top just before serving for a glossy, flavorful finish. - Chill or Serve Immediately
This pasta salad is delicious served right away, but can also be chilled for a couple of hours. If making ahead, consider adding the basil and final drizzle of glaze just before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use quality ingredients: This salad has few components, so every ingredient counts.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and doesn’t get mushy.
- Save some dressing: Reserve a bit to refresh the salad before serving, especially if making it in advance.
- Basil last: Add it at the end to keep it from wilting or turning dark.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in a large white or wooden salad bowl to make the colors pop.
- For a more dynamic look, garnish with whole basil leaves, extra mozzarella pearls, or a few uncut cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze in a zigzag pattern before serving for that Instagram-worthy finish.
- Use mason jars or ramekins for individual portions at picnics or garden parties.
Seasonal Pairings
This salad shines brightest in late spring and summer when tomatoes and basil are at their peak. Here are a few pairing ideas by season:
Spring & Summer:
- Grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or lemon herb salmon
- A crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade
- Sides like grilled corn, cucumber salad, or watermelon slices
Fall Twist:
- Swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes
- Add roasted butternut squash or pumpkin seeds
- Serve alongside warm focaccia or roasted vegetables
This dish adapts beautifully to what’s in season, making it a year-round staple with a few easy tweaks.
Variations & Add-In Ideas
Want to change things up? Try these tasty ideas:
- Add grilled chicken or sliced grilled sausage for protein
- Toss in a handful of arugula or baby spinach
- Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch
- Drizzle with pesto instead of balsamic for a totally different herb-forward flavor
Storage Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- The basil may darken over time, so add a few fresh leaves before serving again.
- Refresh the flavor with a splash of olive oil or a little extra balsamic glaze.
Serving Suggestions
- Potlucks and BBQs: Always a crowd favorite, this salad travels well and holds up beautifully.
- Weekday Lunches: Make a batch on Sunday and enjoy it cold from the fridge all week.
- Dinner Side Dish: Serve it with grilled meats, crusty bread, or a light soup for a balanced meal.
This Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, easy, and flavorful dish that brings a taste of summer to every bite.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner, packing a picnic basket, or just craving something simple and delicious, this salad has you covered.
With its vibrant colors and bold flavor, it’s a guaranteed hit—and one you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again.
Save this recipe for your next summer party or weeknight dinner idea – and don’t forget to drizzle that balsamic glaze!