Name: Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounce box bow-tie or farfalle pasta (medium size #66), cooked and drained; 8 ounce package fresh mozzarella pearls (mini mozzarella balls); 2 cups (1 ½ pints) grape tomatoes, cut in half; 1 small bunch fresh basil, chopped and divided; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; ⅛ cup balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 teaspoons grated garlic (about 2 cloves); 0.6 ounce packet Italian seasoning dressing mix; ½ cup balsamic vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey

Nothing hits quite like the brightness of fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella mingling with pasta on a warm day. This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is that perfect combination—easy, refreshing, and packed with vibrant Italian flavors you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

This image shows a close-up of a pasta salad featuring three main layers. The bottom layer is made of bowtie pasta with a light yellow color and a smooth texture. On top of the pasta, there are halved bright red cherry tomatoes scattered evenly. Small white mozzarella balls are mixed throughout, adding a soft and round shape. Fresh green basil pieces, thinly sliced, are spread across the salad, adding a pop of color and texture. A silver spoon is holding some pasta, a cherry tomato, and mozzarella, placed near the center of the image. The dish is set against a white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is like a delicious shortcut to summer on a plate. I adore how effortlessly the flavors come together, yet it feels like you put in a ton of love and skill. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect no matter the occasion.

Fresh, vibrant ingredients: The basil, mozzarella, and tomatoes create a flavor trio that's fresh and bursting with sunshine.
Simple, homemade dressing: The balsamic dressing is sweet, tangy, and so easy to whip up, elevating the salad beautifully.
Make-ahead friendly: Chill it for a couple of hours and the flavors meld perfectly, saving you time on party day.
Flexible and customizable: You can easily swap pasta shapes or adjust ingredients to suit your taste or what’s in your fridge.

The image shows a white plate filled with a cold pasta salad made of light yellow bow tie pasta as the base layer. On top are bright red cherry tomatoes, some whole and some sliced in half, scattered across the pasta. Small round white mozzarella balls are mixed throughout, adding a creamy contrast. Thin green strips of fresh basil are sprinkled over everything. A dark brown balsamic glaze is drizzled slightly over the top, adding a shiny texture. In the background on a white marbled surface, there is a clear glass bowl with more pasta salad and a small jar with dark balsamic sauce and a spoon inside. A spoon is holding a scoop of the salad, showing all layers up close. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient has a role in making this salad sing — from the texture of the pasta to the punch of fresh basil, and that creamy mozzarella tying it all together. Here’s why I recommend each:

Flat lay of cooked bow-tie pasta, fresh mozzarella pearls, halved grape tomatoes, bright green chopped basil leaves, a small jar of glossy balsamic glaze, a drizzle of golden honey, and a bottle of rich extra virgin olive oil, all beautifully arranged in harmony with vibrant colors and fresh textures, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Bow-tie or farfalle pasta: Perfect little pockets to soak up the dressing but still maintain a nice bite without getting mushy.
Fresh mozzarella pearls: Their creamy softness is a delightful contrast to juicy tomatoes and pasta.
Grape tomatoes: Sweet and firm — slicing them in half releases just enough juice without turning the salad watery.
Fresh basil: It’s the fragrant herb that gives Caprese its signature kick; chop some finely and reserve extras for garnish.
Extra virgin olive oil: Provides richness and helps blend all the dressing flavors beautifully.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds acidity and sweetness — the perfect balance for cutting through the richness of cheese and oil.
Honey: Softens the bite of the balsamic, making the dressing smooth and inviting.
Grated garlic: A little punch that wakes up all the other flavors.
Italian seasoning mix: Adds herbs and spices in the background, making the dressing taste like it came from a deli.
Balsamic glaze (vinegar and honey): This is for the finishing touch — a sweet, syrupy drizzle that’s pure magic on top.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love most about this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is how much room there is to make it truly yours. I often switch up the pasta shape or sneak in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. You can even swap fresh mozzarella pearls for burrata if you want something extra decadent.

Variation: Once, I tossed in some roasted red peppers for a smoky note, and it was a game changer—definitely worth experimenting with!
Dietary tweaks: For a vegan take, swap out mozzarella for marinated tofu pearls or a plant-based mozzarella alternative.
Seasonal swaps: In summer, add fresh yellow cherry tomatoes for a colorful twist that brightens the plate.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta to Perfect Tenderness

I always start by boiling the bow-tie pasta until it’s just al dente, about 10 minutes or according to the package. The key is not to overcook it, so it holds up well once mixed with the juicy ingredients. Drain and toss it into a large bowl to cool slightly—don’t rinse it; those little starches help the dressing cling wonderfully.

Step 2: Whip up the Balsamic Dressing

While the pasta is cooking, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, grated garlic, and Italian seasoning mix in a bowl. Give it a good whisk and pop it in the fridge until it’s time to mix everything together. Cooling the dressing early helps enhance its flavors and gives a refreshing zip when tossed with the salad.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Fresh Ingredients

Into the bowl with your cooked pasta, add the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and most of the chopped basil (holding some back for garnish). Pour in about half a cup of the chilled balsamic dressing and gently toss everything together so each piece gets coated without breaking the delicate mozzarella.

Step 4: Let It Chill and Merge

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. This step is crucial—trust me, the flavors mellow and marry into a cohesive, mouthwatering experience you just can’t rush.

Step 5: Make the Balsamic Glaze and Garnish

While the salad chills, make the balsamic glaze by simmering the balsamic vinegar and honey over medium-low heat until reduced by half to a thick syrup. Let it cool completely. Just before serving, drizzle the glaze over the salad and sprinkle with the reserved fresh basil for an eye-catching and flavorful finish.

Top Tip

After making this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe several times, I’ve learned a few little tricks that really bring it to the next level and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Don't rinse cooked pasta: Keeping the starch on the pasta helps the dressing stick better for more flavorful bites.
Chill for flavor melding: Resist the urge to dive in immediately—letting the salad rest in the fridge allows flavors to deepen and marry perfectly.
Use fresh, ripe tomatoes: Their sweetness balances the tangy balsamic and keeps the overall salad bright and juicy.
Balsamic glaze timing: Make the glaze while the salad chills so it’s ready to drizzle right before serving for the freshest presentation.

How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping this salad with extra fresh basil leaves—they add a pop of vibrant green and fresh aroma. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle a little cracked black pepper or even a handful of toasted pine nuts for crunch. The balsamic glaze makes it look gourmet and tastes like a sweet, tangy jewel on every bite.

Side Dishes

This Caprese Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light summer dinner. I especially enjoy it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. It’s also fantastic at picnics and potlucks alongside your favorite cold cuts or antipasti platter.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties, try serving the salad in hollowed-out mini bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for individual bites. Another idea I tried was layering it in a glass trifle bowl for a stunning look where the colors pop—guests were wowed and it made serving a breeze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Caprese Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I find that the flavors actually deepen over time but the salad is best enjoyed within this window to keep the mozzarella fresh and tomatoes firm.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad because the fresh ingredients like mozzarella and tomatoes lose their texture and become watery once thawed. I prefer making just the amount I expect to eat.

Reheating

This pasta salad is meant to be served chilled, so reheating isn’t usually needed. If you want a warm version, try serving the pasta with the dressing and mozzarella separate, warming the pasta gently before tossing in the fresh ingredients last minute.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pasta in this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While bow-tie or farfalle pasta works best because of its shape, you can substitute penne, fusilli, or even small shells. Just aim for pasta that holds dressing well and doesn’t turn mushy.

How long can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

I recommend making this salad at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld. You can safely prepare it up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge; just reserve the balsamic glaze for garnish to drizzle right before serving.

Can I substitute mozzarella with other cheeses?

Yes, you can. While fresh mozzarella pearls are classic for this recipe, burrata offers a creamier option. For a firmer texture, small cubes of feta can work well, adding a tangy touch.

Is the balsamic glaze necessary?

The balsamic glaze is optional but highly recommended—it adds a beautiful glossy finish and a sweet tang that ties the whole salad together beautifully. If short on time, a light drizzle of good-quality balsamic vinegar is a nice fallback.

Final Thoughts

This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe holds a special spot in my heart for its ease, freshness, and the way it manages to impress with so little fuss. It’s one of those recipes I trust to bring people together — whether for a casual dinner or a sunny weekend gathering. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!