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 fresh mozzarella pearls (mini mozzarella balls); 2 cups (1 ½ pints) grape tomatoes, halved; 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 magically fresh and vibrant about a good Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe. The bright tomatoes, sweet balsamic glaze, and creamy mozzarella all come together to make a crowd-pleaser that’s really easy to whip up anytime you want a splash of summer in your bowl.

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 can’t tell you how many times this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe has been my go-to for quick lunches, potlucks, or a light dinner. It’s fresh but also filling, and that balsamic glaze? It elevates the whole thing making it taste like you spent hours in the kitchen when really, it comes together in a snap.

Simple but impressive: Everyone thinks you nailed a fancy recipe, but it’s just fresh ingredients and a homemade glaze.
Perfect balance: The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella contrast delightfully with tangy balsamic — it’s like summer in every bite.
Make-ahead friendly: It tastes even better after chilling, making it an awesome prep-in-advance dish.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorites like olives or roasted veggies to make it your own.

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

This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe shines because each ingredient brings its own personality to the bowl. When choosing your produce, go for the freshest tomatoes and basil you can find for that punch of herbal brightness. A good quality olive oil and balsamic vinegar make a world of difference in the dressing and glaze.

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: Its shape holds the dressing and ingredients perfectly, ensuring every bite gets a little of everything.
Fresh mozzarella pearls: Creamy and mild, they offer a lovely, soft contrast against the crisp tomatoes.
Grape tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juiciness brighten the salad instantly.
Fresh basil: Aromatic and fresh, it’s that classic Caprese herb that wakes your palate up.
Extra virgin olive oil: Use a flavor-forward one for the dressing to add that rich, fruity note.
Balsamic vinegar: Provides a tangy sweetness, and making a reduced glaze intensifies this to a luscious finish.
Honey: Balances the acidity of the vinegar with gentle sweetness in both the dressing and glaze.
Garlic: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the salad’s delicate flavors.
Italian seasoning mix: Brings an herby depth that ties everything together.

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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 love playing around with this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe — once I made it with fresh grilled zucchini thrown in, and it was a total hit. Don’t hesitate to swap the mozzarella for burrata if you want an indulgent twist.

Add roasted veggies: Roasted peppers or zucchini add a smoky depth to the fresh basil and tomatoes.
Try different pasta shapes: Penne or rotini work wonderfully and create a slightly different texture experience.
Go vegan: Use a plant-based mozzarella alternative and reduce the honey or swap it for maple syrup.
Spicy kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños if you like a little heat.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Start by boiling your bow-tie pasta until it’s al dente — usually around 10 minutes, but check your package. I always toss it in salted water to maximize flavor. Drain and immediately transfer it to a big bowl so it cools down as you prep the rest. No one wants mushy pasta salad!

Step 2: Whisk Together The Balsamic Dressing

While the pasta cooks, mix your olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, grated garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. I like popping it in the fridge while I prepare the rest — chilling helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Fresh Ingredients with Pasta

Add the halved grape tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and most of your chopped fresh basil right into the pasta bowl. Pour in about half a cup of the chilled balsamic dressing and give everything a gentle toss until every bit is nicely coated.

Step 4: Let It Chill and Marinate

Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for about two hours. This resting time is key — the pasta soaks up all those delicious dressing flavors, and the tomatoes release just enough juice to keep things moist without getting soggy.

Step 5: Make the Balsamic Glaze for the Finishing Touch

This step is what takes the Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe from everyday to memorable. Simmer balsamic vinegar and honey on the stove until it reduces by half, turning into this rich, syrupy glaze. Cool it completely, then drizzle generously over the salad before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle on the reserved fresh basil and finish with a beautiful drizzle of the balsamic glaze. You’re ready to wow your family or guests with those colorful layers and incredible flavors!

Top Tip

Having made this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe countless times, I've learned a few tricks that ensure it turns out perfectly every time. These little insights save time and enhance flavor, so keep them in mind when you’re assembling yours.

Don’t skip chilling: The salad tastes best after a couple of hours in the fridge, allowing flavors to harmonize nicely.
Glaze patience: Keep an eye on the balsamic reduction to avoid burning it — simmer low and slow wins the day.
Fresh basil last: Reserve some basil for garnish so its vibrant green color stands out instead of wilting inside.
Don’t overdress: Use the balsamic dressing sparingly at first; you can always add more, but too much can make the pasta soggy.

How to Serve Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

caprese pasta salad - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I swear by a fresh handful of basil leaves for that punch of color and aroma. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a few grinds of black pepper right before serving — it elevates the flavors even more. And the balsamic glaze drizzle isn’t just pretty; it adds that irresistible sweet-tangy zing.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a light dinner. For a picnic or potluck, I love serving it alongside crusty sourdough bread or a simple green salad. The freshness balances well with anything creamy or smoky on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this Caprese Pasta Salad layered in clear glass trifle dishes to show off the colorful ingredients — it’s a visual winner. You can also spoon it into hollowed-out tomatoes or mini bell peppers for bite-sized appetizers that guests adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Caprese Pasta Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually leave the balsamic glaze separate until serving again; this keeps the salad from getting too wet. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Freezing

I don’t recommend freezing this salad because the fresh basil and mozzarella pearls lose their texture and flavor. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days when refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let leftovers sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving to take the chill off, but overheating will melt the mozzarella and wilt the basil.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese in this Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella pearls are traditional, you can substitute with burrata for creamier texture or even a firm mozzarella cut into small cubes. Just avoid super-hard cheeses as they can overpower the delicate balance.

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

You can prepare this salad up to 2 days in advance. Keep the dressing separate if possible, and add it just before serving or toss to coat right before chilling to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to make the balsamic glaze without burning it?

Simmer the balsamic vinegar and honey on low to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it so the mixture doesn’t reduce too quickly or burn. It’s ready when it’s thick enough to coat the back of a spoon — this usually takes 15-20 minutes.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Definitely! Swap the mozzarella pearls for a vegan cheese alternative or marinated tofu cubes, and replace the honey in the dressing and glaze with maple syrup or agave nectar to keep that subtle sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s the kind of dish that feels both casual and festive. Whether you're feeding a family, sharing with friends, or just treating yourself, it never lets me down. I hope you find the same joy in making it as I do — it’s fresh, bright, and endlessly satisfying. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the bowl!