Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Name: Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) pasta (fusilli or rotini); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/2 cup basil pesto; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

A refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the classic flavors of Caprese with delicious pesto and pasta.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T06:59:28.142Z

This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is perfect for warm days, picnics, or as a side dish for your summer barbecues. The combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil pesto creates a delightful flavor profile that everyone will enjoy!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh flavors from basil and tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
A colorful dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate

      

A Taste of Italy

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful fusion of Italian flavors that brings the essence of summer right to your table. The combination of fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella encapsulates the vibrant spirit of a classic Caprese salad while introducing the hearty element of pasta. This dish is not only satisfying but also embodies the carefree, sun-soaked days of Mediterranean dining.

The use of basil pesto adds a rich, aromatic depth to the salad, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Originating from Genoa, pesto is traditionally made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, making it a fragrant sauce that complements the ingredients beautifully. Each bite is a refreshing burst of flavor, reminiscent of warm Italian afternoons.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is its versatility. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, a casual picnic, or a festive potluck, this dish fits seamlessly into any menu. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it an appealing choice that can serve as a main dish or a delightful side.

Additionally, this pasta salad is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cooking and a short assembly time. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, it holds up well, allowing you to make it ahead of time without losing its freshness.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. For an added crunch, consider including ingredients like sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even toasted pine nuts. If you're looking for a protein boost, grilled chicken or chickpeas can make a great addition, transforming this salad into a heartier meal.

Additionally, you can explore different types of pasta or pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto, to give the dish a unique twist. The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying the delightful combination of flavors.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad Ingredients

8 oz (225 g) pasta (fusilli or rotini)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup basil pesto
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Mix well and enjoy your vibrant salad!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil.

Add Pesto

Pour in the basil pesto and mix until all ingredients are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

You can drizzle with olive oil if desired and serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a cooler dish.

Enjoy your Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad!

Storage Tips

To keep your Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed cold for up to 3 days after preparation, making it a great option for meal prepping. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle over time.

If you find that the salad has absorbed some of the pesto, simply drizzle in a bit more olive oil or pesto before serving to revive its flavor and moisture. This ensures that every bite remains deliciously vibrant and satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits

This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The fresh tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. Basil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, adding to the dish's health benefits.

Moreover, the mozzarella provides a good source of protein and calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. When combined with whole grain pasta, this salad becomes a balanced meal that offers carbohydrates for energy, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fusilli or rotini are great choices as they hold the pesto well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

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

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe for convenience.