Introduction

This Caprese pasta salad recipe is practically summer in a bowl! As you can probably tell from its name, it’s a delicious fusion of two summer favorites: pasta salad and Italian Caprese salad.

If you ask me, it’s a match made in heaven. A classic Caprese salad is bursting with fresh summer flavor, thanks to the famous combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil. But it isn’t as packable as pasta salad, a staple at picnics and potlucks.

This easy Caprese pasta salad recipe combines the best of both. You get all the fresh flavor of a Caprese salad in a picnic-friendly pasta salad form. And it’s not just good for picnics and cookouts—I also love meal prepping this salad for a fresh summer lunch!

How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad

You can find the complete Caprese pasta salad recipe with measurements at the bottom of this post. For now, here’s a quick overview of how it goes:

Caprese Pasta Salad Ingredients

• Tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella—the star ingredients in a classic Caprese salad.
• Red onion and pecorino cheese add nice savory depth.
• Pasta (cavatappi, fusilli, or rotini) is essential for a fun texture.
• A simple dressing made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor.

Find the complete recipe with measurements below.

Instructions

To make the salad, start by cooking the pasta. Two big tips:

1. Cook the pasta until it’s slightly past al dente. For cold pasta salad, a little softer is better.
2. Allow the pasta to cool. Tossing hot pasta with fresh ingredients will wilt them.

Make the salad dressing. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, grated pecorino, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Assemble the salad. Add the cooled pasta, and toss with the dressing. Then, add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and basil; toss again. Top with shaved pecorino and gently toss.

Before serving, season to taste and garnish with more basil.

Enjoy!

What to Serve with Caprese Pasta Salad

This Caprese pasta salad is a great side dish for summer cookouts and picnics. Serve it with veggie burgers, black bean burgers, and summery sides like grilled corn, potato salad, and coleslaw.

I also love it for lunch. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit!

• Tip: Make this a heartier lunch salad by adding chickpeas for plant-based protein.

More Pasta Salad Recipes to Try

If you love this recipe, try one of these fresh pasta salads next: