This Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad is fresh, creamy, and loaded with Italian flavor! Tender pasta is tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, and a rich pesto dressing for the ultimate easy summer pasta salad recipe.
A bright, herby pasta salad loaded with pesto, tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Perfect for picnics, meal prep, or an easy summer side dish.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, fusilli, bowties, or penne)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- ⅓–½ cup pesto sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh basil, torn
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Grilled chicken
- Baby spinach
- Avocado
- Toasted pine nuts
- Parmesan cheese
- Balsamic glaze drizzle
Instructions
- Cook pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water. - Prepare dressing
Mix pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. - Assemble salad
Add pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss until evenly coated. - Finish & chill
Top with extra basil and optional balsamic glaze. Chill 15–30 minutes before serving.
Quick Tips
- Use homemade pesto for the freshest flavor.
- Reserve a splash of pasta water if the pesto feels too thick.
- Add mozzarella just before serving for the best texture.
Delicious Variations
Protein Boost
Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Mediterranean Style
Add olives, cucumbers, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Creamy Version
Mix a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo into the pesto dressing.
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