There’s something about the simple flavors of Italy that instantly brings a sense of comfort and joy to the table. When I think of lazy summer afternoons spent with family or picnics at the park, one dish always comes to mind: Caprese salad. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil—it’s a trio that sings of sunshine and laughter.

But what happens when you take those beloved flavors and wrap them up in a creamy, hearty pasta salad? Magic, that’s what. Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect marriage of bright, fresh ingredients with a rich, satisfying dressing that clings lovingly to every twist of pasta.

In my family, this salad often made an appearance during potlucks or casual Sunday dinners. It’s easy to throw together but feels a little special, like a gentle reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary moments. Whether you’re bringing it to a BBQ, serving it as a side dish, or enjoying it on its own for a light lunch, this pasta salad promises comfort, flavor, and just a bit of that Italian countryside charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
• Full of fresh, vibrant flavors balanced by a luscious creamy dressing.
• Completely customizable with your favorite pasta shapes.
• A fantastic way to enjoy seasonal summer produce like ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
• Hearty enough to be a meal on its own or a standout side dish.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 12 oz pasta (rotini or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY CAPRESE PASTA SALAD:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until it’s perfectly al dente, according to the package directions. I love using rotini because those little spirals are just perfect for catching all that creamy dressing. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Dressing
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, balsamic glaze, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir until everything is beautifully combined. The dressing should be rich but still pourable — if it seems too thick, you can loosen it with a tiny splash of water or more olive oil.

Step 3: Combine the Salad
Now the fun part. Add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls into the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together so that each piece is coated in that silky dressing.

Step 4: Add the Basil
Just before serving, toss in the fresh basil. If you add it too early, it can wilt, and we definitely want it to stay bright and aromatic.

Step 5: Season to Taste
Finally, give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Sometimes I even sprinkle a little extra Italian seasoning on top for a burst of herby goodness.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Cool Your Pasta Completely: Warm pasta will soak up too much dressing and make the salad dry.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The flavors really shine when you use sweet, ripe tomatoes and good-quality mozzarella.
• Make It Ahead: You can make this salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the basil until right before serving.
• Customize It: Add extras like diced turkey ham, grilled chicken, or even sliced olives if you’re feeling adventurous.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

If you find your salad has thickened up after sitting in the fridge, just stir in a splash of milk or olive oil to loosen it up before serving. This pasta salad is very forgiving and welcomes little tweaks based on what you have on hand.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

(Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Bowties, penne, or shells all work wonderfully. Just choose something that can hold the creamy dressing well.

How long does it last in the fridge?
This pasta salad stays fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep it tightly covered.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a plant-based yogurt and mayo.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving again, and refresh with a little extra olive oil or balsamic glaze if needed. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for maximum freshness.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Costco Lobster Ravioli : A Restaurant-Worthy Dish at Home
• The Ultimate Crunchy Chicken Romesco Sandwich: A Flavor-Packed Delight
• Balsamic Strawberry Caprese: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Salad

CONCLUSION

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience, a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re whipping it up for a gathering, packing it for a picnic, or just making a big bowl to enjoy throughout the week, it’s bound to bring a little extra sunshine to your table. Give it a try and taste the magic of tradition wrapped up in creamy, dreamy comfort.

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