Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto

Name: Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Meals

This Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto is a vibrant and fresh dish that combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad with al dente pasta and a rich pesto sauce.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-04T05:18:29.376Z

This Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto is perfect for summer picnics or as a light, refreshing meal any time of year. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and nutritious.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh ingredients that burst with flavor
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Versatile and can be served warm or cold

      

A Fresh Take on a Classic Dish

Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto takes the beloved flavors of a traditional Caprese salad and elevates them with the addition of pasta. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even as a light lunch option. The juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella create a delightful contrast in textures, while the fresh basil adds a fragrant aroma that elevates the entire dish.

What makes this pasta salad truly stand out is the homemade pesto. Unlike store-bought options that can lack flavor, making your own allows you to control the freshness and quality of the ingredients. The vibrant green hue of the pesto not only makes the salad visually appealing but also packs a punch of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of this Caprese Pasta Salad is its versatility. It can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for any season. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a comforting dish in the winter months, this pasta salad fits the bill. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep; simply store it in the fridge and enjoy it throughout the week.

This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an excellent way to incorporate fresh vegetables into your meals. With its colorful presentation, it’s sure to impress your family and friends, while still being simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients you may have on hand!

Storage and Serving Tips

To ensure the best flavor and texture, it's advisable to serve your Caprese Pasta Salad soon after preparing it. However, if you need to make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the ingredients fresh.

When serving, feel free to customize the salad by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavors and presentation, making it even more irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Salad

8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pesto

1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves. Add the pesto and toss until everything is well coated.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.

Pasta Choices

When it comes to choosing the right pasta for your Caprese Pasta Salad, consider options like fusilli or penne. These shapes hold onto the pesto and other ingredients better than flat pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The ridges and curves of these pasta types help trap the dressing, making your salad even more delicious.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you prefer. These alternatives can provide a different texture and flavor profile while still fitting into the overall theme of the dish.

Variations to Try

While the classic Caprese ingredients are delightful, don't hesitate to get creative! Consider adding ingredients like arugula for a peppery bite or avocado for creaminess. You could also incorporate seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to add even more color and nutrition.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to your pasta salad, balancing the richness of the cheese and the earthiness of the basil. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; feel free to make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto works great in this recipe!

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, olives, or spinach for more variety.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance for the best flavor.