This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is the perfect mix of fresh flavors! With pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and vibrant basil pesto, it’s a treat for the eyes and taste buds.
It’s super easy to whip up, and I love how it makes my lunch feel fancy. Plus, it’s great for sharing, but let’s be real—sometimes I keep it all to myself! 😉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used orecchiette since its shape holds onto the pesto well. If you can’t find it, any short pasta like shells, fusilli, or penne will work just fine!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using mixed colors for a pop of visual appeal. If you can’t find them, regular tomatoes diced into bite-size pieces can substitute well.
Fresh Mozzarella: Ciliegine is perfect because they’re bite-sized. If you can only find larger mozzarella, just chop it into smaller pieces. For a non-dairy option, try using vegan mozzarella.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that aromatic kick! If you don’t have fresh, a teaspoon of dried basil can work in a pinch, but fresh is much better.
Pesto: You can use store-bought pesto for convenience, but homemade is tastier! If you’re looking for something different, use sun-dried tomato pesto or even spinach pesto.
Heavy Cream or Greek Yogurt: These both add creaminess. Greek yogurt is a lighter option with added protein. You can also use sour cream if you prefer.
How Do I Make Sure the Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
The pasta needs to be cooked to al dente, meaning it should have a little bite left when you chew it. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the pasta.
- Check the cooking time on the package and taste a minute before the suggested time is up.
- Once done, drain the pasta, but remember to rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking.
This helps keep the pasta firm and perfect for tossing with the other ingredients!
Light And Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz orecchiette or shell pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mixed colors for variety)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for a refreshing meal or side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the orecchiette or shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Take a large mixing bowl and add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and torn basil leaves. Gently mix them together so that everything is well combined.
3. Make the Creamy Pesto Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix the pesto and heavy cream (or Greek yogurt) together using a whisk or spoon until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you’d like a thinner consistency, add a little olive oil and mix well.
4. Dress the Pasta Salad:
Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. This is where all the flavors come together!
5. Season and Serve:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste and toss again. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some balsamic glaze on top for that extra zing. You can serve the salad right away, or for an even better flavor, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing pasta salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While orecchiette and shell pasta work great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the pasta and other ingredients stay fresh and don’t become soggy. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days when stored in the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute! You can also use a plant-based alternative like almond milk or coconut cream, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. Just mix in enough to achieve your desired creaminess!
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you might want to toss in a splash of olive oil or a bit more pesto to revive the flavors before serving.
