This Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and tasty dish that’s perfect for warm days. With pasta, juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, every bite is full of flavor.
Honestly, the creamy dressing just makes it even better! I love making a big bowl of this on weekends and enjoying it all week long. It’s so simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral pasta holds the creamy dressing well, but you can swap it for any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or bowties. Want a low-carb version? Try zucchini noodles or cauliflower pasta!
Cherry Tomatoes: Use these for their sweetness and juiciness. If they aren’t available, grape tomatoes or regular diced tomatoes work just fine. I love that burst of flavor when you bite into a cherry tomato!
Fresh Mozzarella: Mozzarella adds a creamy texture. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella can work too. You might also consider vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Basil: Basil is essential for that vibrant flavor. If you don’t have it, try substituting with fresh parsley or even dried Italian herbs if fresh isn’t accessible, but the flavor will be different.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds tanginess. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative and still creamy. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free yogurt.
How Do I Get My Pasta Salad to Have Great Flavor?
A big part of making a delicious pasta salad is ensuring each ingredient is flavorful! Here are some tips to boost that taste:
- Cook the pasta al dente; it should still have a slight chew. Overcooked pasta can make the salad mushy.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop it from cooking further and to cool it down for mixing.
- Don’t skip letting the salad chill in the refrigerator. This step lets the flavors come together beautifully.
- Taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper to make sure it’s perfectly seasoned—every ingredient matters!
Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced or mini mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad will take about 20 minutes to prepare. The pasta takes about 10-12 minutes to cook, and then you’ll need just a little time to mix everything together. Don’t forget to pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving—it really lets the flavors unite!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Drain well to remove excess water.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and thinly sliced basil. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything evenly. It’s already looking vibrant, isn’t it?
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and minced garlic until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing is where the magic happens!
4. Dress the Pasta Salad:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly in the dressing. Be careful not to mush the mozzarella!
5. Season and Chill:
Season your pasta salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Make sure to taste it and adjust the seasonings if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors marry and enhance!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give it another gentle toss. Garnish with extra fresh basil if you’d like for a pop of color. This salad is delicious served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for potlucks and picnics!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just substitute the rotini with your favorite gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of options available, including rice, quinoa, or corn-based pasta. Cook according to the package directions for best results.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
The Easy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate slightly.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, you can swap the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives, like avocado or vegan yogurt. Use a dairy-free mozzarella or omit it altogether for a lighter version!
What Other Veggies Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even olives for an extra flavor boost. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them into the salad!
