Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this pesto caprese pasta salad! It’s like a burst of summer in every bite—fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-quick to whip up! I love how the creamy mozzarella cheese pairs perfectly with the juicy cherry tomatoes, all coated in that luscious pesto. And the best part? You can have it ready in no time, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Seriously, every time I make this, I can’t help but smile at how simple yet delicious it is. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful pesto caprese pasta salad. Don’t worry; it’s super simple!
- 8 oz pasta: I usually go for rotini or penne, but feel free to use your favorite shape!
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These sweet little gems add a burst of color and flavor.
- 1 cup mozzarella balls: Opt for the mini ones if you can—they’re just so cute and fun to eat!
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce: Homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s packed with flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: Fresh basil is a must for that aromatic touch.
- Salt to taste: A little sprinkle goes a long way!
- Pepper to taste: I love freshly cracked black pepper for that extra kick.
How to Prepare Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Making this pesto caprese pasta salad is as easy as pie, and I’m here to guide you through every delicious step! Let’s get started!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
First things first, you’ll want to cook your pasta according to the package instructions. I recommend boiling it until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it in a colander and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Trust me, letting it cool is key to getting the right texture in your salad!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes and those adorable little mozzarella balls. Make sure you gently mix everything so that each piece gets to know the others—this is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Add Pesto and Season
Next, drizzle in that gorgeous pesto sauce! I like to use a spatula to fold it in gently, ensuring every noodle is coated in that vibrant green goodness. Don’t forget to toss in the chopped basil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of pepper as you mix. This step is all about balance, so taste as you go!
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Finally, pop your salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This little chill time allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even more delightful. You’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—ready in under an hour!
- Uses fresh, vibrant ingredients that scream summer.
- The creamy mozzarella and zesty pesto create a flavor explosion.
- Perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.
- Versatile and can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins.
Tips for Success
Alright, here are my top tips to make sure your pesto caprese pasta salad turns out absolutely perfect! First off, if you have the time, go for homemade pesto—it really elevates the flavor and makes a world of difference. I promise it’s worth the extra effort! Also, make the salad a day in advance if you can; it gives those flavors ample time to mingle and develop, making it even tastier. Lastly, don’t be shy with the fresh basil; it adds a wonderful aromatic touch that screams freshness. Trust me, these little tweaks will take your salad to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious pesto caprese pasta salad. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 10g
This salad is not only tasty but also packed with a good balance of proteins and carbohydrates, making it a lovely option for a light meal or side dish. Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with vibrant, wholesome ingredients!
FAQ Section
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you love, whether it’s fusilli, farfalle, or even whole wheat options. Just keep in mind that different shapes may hold the pesto differently—some might catch more sauce, while others give a nice bite. It’s all about personal preference, so feel free to get creative!
How long does the salad last?
This pesto caprese pasta salad can last in the fridge for about 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container. For the best taste, though, I recommend enjoying it within the first couple of days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and you’ll be good to go!
Can I make this salad vegan?
Definitely! To make this salad vegan, simply swap out the mozzarella balls for a dairy-free cheese alternative or even some marinated tofu for added texture. Also, ensure your pesto is dairy-free—there are lots of delicious vegan pesto recipes out there that use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. It’ll still be packed with flavor!
Serving Suggestions
This pesto caprese pasta salad is the perfect companion to grilled meats or seafood—think juicy chicken skewers or lemony shrimp! It also pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve it alongside some crusty garlic bread for that ultimate Italian feast. Trust me, these combinations will elevate your meal to a whole new level!
For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Pasta Primavera or Insalata di Pasta.
For more information on the health benefits of basil, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad: 5 Simple Steps to Delight!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant pasta salad featuring pesto and Caprese ingredients.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
- Add the pesto sauce and mix well.
- Stir in the chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Use homemade pesto for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: pesto caprese pasta salad
