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 of 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

There’s something truly refreshing about the classic flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil coming together in a pasta salad. This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe is a bright and vibrant dish that’s perfect for warm days or whenever you want a simple, crowd-pleasing meal. Let me show you how easy it is to make this delightful salad that tastes as fresh as summer itself.

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

I honestly couldn't wait to share this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe with you because it’s one of those go-to recipes that never disappoints. I love how fresh ingredients here combine effortlessly with a sweet tangy dressing to create a salad full of flavor and texture.

Simple but Elevated: The balsamic glaze drizzle takes the familiar salad to another level of deliciousness.
Colorful and Fresh: The vibrant tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and bright basil make it as pretty as it is tasty.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Chilling it lets flavors meld wonderfully, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add extras to match your mood 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 in this salad plays a starring role, giving the dish that classic Caprese flair but with pasta as a hearty base. When you shop, look for the freshest mozzarella and ripe, firm cherry or grape tomatoes for the best taste and texture.

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: The shape holds onto the dressing and mix-ins beautifully, plus it looks lovely on the plate.
Fresh mozzarella pearls: Creamy and tender, they melt slightly with the warm pasta but keep their delightful chewiness.
Grape tomatoes: Sweet bursts of juiciness balance the cheese and add vibrant color.
Fresh basil: Adds that unmistakable herbal brightness, and chopped basil infused throughout brings freshness in every bite.
Extra virgin olive oil: The base of the dressing, providing richness and depth.
Balsamic vinegar: Brings acidity and a beautiful tang that wakes up the palate.
Honey: Adds subtle sweetness to balance the vinegar’s tartness both in the dressing and glaze.
Grated garlic: This touch of warmth and pungency rounds out the dressing flavors.
Italian seasoning mix: Conveniently packs in herbs like oregano and basil for authentic flavor without fuss.

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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

I like keeping the Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe pretty classic, but it’s fun to make it your own. Maybe you’ll want to add some grilled chicken for a more filling meal or toss in some toasted pine nuts for crunch. Don’t be shy about experimenting — it’s forgiving and versatile.

Variation: I once swapped out the mozzarella pearls for fresh burrata — it made the salad decadently creamy and was a huge hit at our dinner.
Dietary Tweaks: For a vegan version, try using vegan mozzarella and a little maple syrup in the dressing instead of honey.
Seasonal Flair: During autumn, I like adding roasted butternut squash for a sweet, earthy touch.

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

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection

Start by boiling the bow-tie or farfalle pasta until it’s just tender but still firm to the bite — usually about 10 minutes or following the package. I always taste a piece to be sure because overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the salad, which nobody wants! Once done, drain and transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip Up the Balsamic Dressing

While the pasta bubbles away, whisk together your olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, grated garlic, and Italian seasoning packet. Pop this in the fridge to chill — it lets the flavors deepen and keeps the salad cool once combined.

Step 3: Combine the Salad Ingredients

To the pasta in your bowl, add the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and chopped basil (reserve some for garnish). Pour in about half a cup of that chilled balsamic dressing you made. Toss everything gently so the flavors mix but the cheese stays intact.

Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Marry

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours. This step is a game-changer. I learned that letting it rest really lets those beautiful basil and balsamic notes soak into the pasta for extraordinary flavor.

Step 5: Make the Balsamic Glaze & Garnish

While the salad chills, bring balsamic vinegar and honey to a boil in a small saucepan, then simmer gently until it reduces by half and thickens into a luscious glaze. Let it cool completely—this glaze adds a gorgeous, glossy finish and a punch of sweet tang. Just before serving, drizzle it all over the salad and scatter the reserved fresh basil on top.

Top Tip

I’ve made this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe numerous times, and here’s what I’ve learned to make it shine every time. These tips helped me avoid common pitfalls and get the best results.

Pasta Texture Matters: Never skip tasting the pasta a minute or two before the package time — you want it al dente so it holds up well when chilled.
Chill for Flavor Harmony: I used to rush serving it straight away, but leaving it in the fridge for at least 2 hours makes all the difference.
Glaze Consistency: Watch the balsamic glaze closely during simmering so it doesn't burn; it should coat the back of a spoon when done.
Fresh Basil Finish: Adding basil right before serving keeps its flavor lively and prevents it from wilting or darkening.

How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love finishing this salad with fresh basil leaves and a generous drizzle of the balsamic glaze. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt or fresh cracked black pepper on top just before serving to elevate the flavor even more.

Side Dishes

This Caprese Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty garlic bread, or a simple green salad. It also makes a fantastic light lunch on its own, especially when the weather calls for something cool and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I like serving the salad layered in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colors. Another idea is to serve it in small individual jars for picnics or potlucks — it looks charming and is easy to transport.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I transfer the salad to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It stays fresh and tasty for about 3 days. Just note the pasta may absorb more dressing over time, so give it a gentle toss before serving again.

Freezing

I usually don’t freeze this salad because the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes change texture when frozen and thawed. Fresh is definitely best for this recipe!

Reheating

This is a cold pasta salad so I don’t reheat it, but if you want to bring it to room temperature, take it out of the fridge about 20-30 minutes before serving — the flavors really open up nicely that way.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use different pasta for the Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While bow-tie or farfalle pasta is recommended because it holds dressing well and complements the salad’s visual appeal, you can also use penne, rotini, or even small shells — just cook them al dente and drain thoroughly.

How long can I make Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe ahead of time?

I recommend preparing it at least 2 hours in advance and refrigerating to let the flavors meld. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days. Beyond that, the pasta may start to get soggy and the tomatoes less vibrant.

What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella pearls?

If you can’t find fresh mozzarella pearls, chunk fresh mozzarella and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, mini bocconcini works beautifully as well.

Can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan mozzarella alternative or omit cheese altogether. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave in both the dressing and balsamic glaze for a vegan-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it captures that essence of fresh, simple ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. Whether it’s the centerpiece at a summer barbecue or a quick weekday lunch, I’m confident you’ll find it as satisfying and versatile as I do. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to make it your own — I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your recipe stash!