The Best Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad
This is The Best Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad, a vibrant and easy summer dish combining al dente pasta, sweet cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and a homemade basil pesto dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus optional 30 minutes chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 ounces short pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
- Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. To make it dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella and pesto.