This creamy Caprese pasta salad is like summer on a plate! It combines fresh tomatoes, basil, mozzarella, and pasta, all tossed in a smooth dressing that’s oh-so-satisfying.
I love making this dish for picnics or potlucks. It’s a hit every time! Plus, you can whip it up in no time—just mix and enjoy while soaking up the sun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta is great for holding onto the creamy dressing. You can swap it for any pasta you like, such as penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Whole grain or gluten-free options work well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems are bursting with flavor. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Roasting them can add an extra layer of flavor!
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using ‘bocconcini’ or ‘ciliegine’ for bite-size pieces. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella or even feta cheese can add a delightful twist!
Basil: Fresh basil really brightens up this dish. If you don’t have it, try fresh parsley or even spinach for a different taste. Dried herbs can work too; just use less, as they’re more concentrated.
Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: For a rich and creamy dressing, I prefer this combo. You can swap Greek yogurt with sour cream, or use just one of these if you prefer. For a lighter version, try low-fat options or plain yogurt.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad is Perfectly Creamy?
The secret to a creamy pasta salad lies in the dressing. Start with a base of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to balance creaminess and tang. This combo gives a rich taste while keeping it light. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure to whisk the dressing ingredients together until smooth. This helps combine flavors evenly.
- Don’t forget to chill the salad! Letting it rest in the fridge allows the flavors to blend nicely.
- Toss gently! When mixing, be careful not to break the pasta or the mozzarella.
By following these tips, you’ll have a wonderfully creamy salad that everyone will love!
How to Make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For The Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Caprese pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you can whip it up in less than an hour and have a delicious side dish ready to impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This will help cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to drain completely.
2. Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together nicely.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and minced garlic (if you’re using it). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep whisking until everything is well blended and creamy.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated in that creamy goodness. Take a moment to taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary—add more salt or pepper if you like!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out cold, and feel free to garnish with extra fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy your delicious creamy Caprese pasta salad!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini works great for this recipe, you can use any pasta you prefer such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream is a perfect alternative. Alternatively, you could use regular plain yogurt, but your dressing may be slightly thinner. You can also lighten it up by using cottage cheese blended until smooth!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken or separate while sitting.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad actually tastes even better after sitting! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge to let the flavors develop. If the dressing thickens too much, stir in a splash of olive oil before serving to loosen it up.
