This Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is the perfect fresh and flavorful summer dish! Made with tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and a rich balsamic glaze, this easy Italian-inspired pasta salad is ideal for BBQs, picnics, potlucks, meal prep, or quick family dinners.
A vibrant pasta salad featuring sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a rich balsamic glaze that ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, bowties, penne, or fusilli)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- ¼ cup fresh basil, torn
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finish
- 2–3 tbsp balsamic glaze
Optional Add-Ins
- Grilled chicken
- Avocado
- Spinach or arugula
- Pesto
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water. - Prepare dressing
Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper together. - Assemble salad
Combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large bowl. - Dress & drizzle
Toss with dressing, then drizzle generously with balsamic glaze before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the sweetest flavor.
- Chill the salad for 20 minutes before serving.
- Add extra basil and glaze right before serving for the freshest presentation.
Easy Variations
Pesto Caprese
Add a few spoonfuls of pesto for extra herb flavor.
Protein Boost
Mix in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Creamy Version
Add a spoonful of pesto mayo or Greek yogurt dressing.
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