This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil all wrapped in a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for summer picnics or quick dinners!
Just thinking about it makes my mouth water! It’s so easy to whip up, and I love how colorful it looks on my table. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its twists and turns that hold onto the dressing well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you have on hand!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add sweetness. Grape tomatoes work too! If they’re out of season, try sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of mozzarella is key here. If you want a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella or even cubed feta for a tangy twist!
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that classic Caprese taste. In a pinch, you can use jarred pesto instead, or even dried basil, but adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more potent.
Balsamic Vinegar: Reducing balsamic vinegar gives a sweet depth to the dressing. If you’re short on time, use store-bought balsamic glaze instead!
How Do I Make Smooth Dressing?
Creating a creamy dressing can sound tricky, but here’s the easy way. Mixing mayonnaise and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) gives a rich base.
- Start with room temperature ingredients. This helps them blend smoothly.
- Whisk well to avoid lumps and ensure a beautiful, creamy texture.
- Feel free to add minced garlic for a punch of flavor; just keep it light so it doesn’t overpower the salad.
Once you mix the dressing with the pasta, it should coat everything beautifully and be ready to chill!
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or other short pasta)
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Caprese pasta salad will take around 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you can whip it up in about 45 minutes total! Perfect for a quick and fresh meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually means about 8-10 minutes, but check the box for the exact time. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Set it aside to drain well.
2. Make the Balsamic Reduction:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, pour in the balsamic vinegar. Let it come to a simmer and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing will give the pasta salad its rich flavor!
4. Combine the Pasta and Dressing:
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Toss everything together gently, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the dressing.
5. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Now, fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella cheese, and sliced basil leaves. Mix carefully so you don’t break the mozzarella, and everything is well combined.
6. Season and Serve:
Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the salad and sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything lightly to combine. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors come together.
7. Enjoy!
Serve the pasta salad cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra fresh basil if you like. Enjoy your delightful and creamy Caprese pasta salad with family and friends!
FAQ for Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the rotini with any gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta sometimes cooks differently.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken or separate while it’s stored.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make it vegan by using plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free yogurt or a silken tofu blend as substitutes. Opt for vegan mozzarella or skip the cheese altogether for a fresh, bright flavor!
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or even grilled chicken for a protein boost. For a little kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced olives!
