Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto

Name: Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup mozzarella balls; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh basil leaves; 1/4 cup pine nuts; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with hearty pasta and a delicious pesto dressing.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-04T06:06:28.615Z

This Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto is the perfect dish for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings a burst of flavor, while the pesto adds a delightful richness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect blend of fresh ingredients and savory pesto
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
Great for picnics, potlucks, or a light dinner

      

A Medley of Flavors

Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto harmoniously blends the freshness of a traditional Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta. The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil come together in a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. This salad is a celebration of summer ingredients, making it a go-to dish during warm months or any time you crave a refreshing meal.

The addition of pesto elevates this dish, infusing it with a rich, nutty flavor that complements the fresh ingredients perfectly. Homemade pesto is easy to prepare and far superior to store-bought versions, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. Using quality ingredients ensures that each bite is packed with taste, making this salad a favorite among family and friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of this Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto is its versatility. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it at a potluck, or enjoying it as a light dinner at home, this salad adapts seamlessly to any occasion. It can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or entertaining.

Additionally, this dish is easily customizable to suit your preferences or dietary needs. You can add grilled chicken for extra protein, swap out the mozzarella for a dairy-free alternative, or incorporate seasonal vegetables for added nutrition. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that you’ll never tire of this delightful recipe.

Nutritional Benefits

This Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Fresh tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting skin health. The basil provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, while the pine nuts in the pesto offer healthy fats and protein that can keep you satiated.

Moreover, whole grain pasta can be used for an added boost of fiber, aiding in digestion and contributing to overall health. The combination of fresh ingredients ensures that you’re not only enjoying a tasty meal but also nourishing your body with wholesome foods.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mozzarella balls
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pesto

1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Pesto

In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pulse until blended. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and torn basil leaves. Pour the pesto over and toss to combine.

Serve

Top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Enjoy your fresh Caprese Pasta Salad!

Pro Tips

For a variation, add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Storage Tips

To keep your Caprese Pasta Salad fresh for later enjoyment, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days, as the ingredients may lose their freshness over time. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider adding the pesto just before serving to maintain the vibrant color and flavor of the basil.

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a convenient option for lunch the next day. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues and summer gatherings. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a hearty steak to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

For a vegetarian option, serve it with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up any leftover pesto dressing. This salad also makes a fantastic addition to a buffet spread, where its colorful ingredients can shine and entice guests to dig in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a few hours ahead. Just keep the pesto separate until ready to serve to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Penne or fusilli are great choices, but you can use any pasta you prefer.

→ Can I substitute the pine nuts in the pesto?

Yes, walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used as a substitute for pine nuts.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.