Fresh Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad blends classic Italian flavors into a portable side or light main. The spiral fusilli captures olive oil, while juicy mozzarella balls and halved cherry tomatoes provide texture and freshness, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.

📌 Pin this recipe for later

Save it to your Pinterest board so it’s one tap away at dinner time.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fusilli pasta
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add fusilli, and cook 9‑11 minutes until al dente.
2. 2. Drain pasta and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds to stop cooking; let drain completely.
3. 3. In a large bowl combine the cooled fusilli, mozzarella balls, and halved cherry tomatoes.
4. 4. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle salt and cracked black pepper.
5. 5. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated and the oil glistens.
6. 6. Fold in torn basil leaves just before serving for a burst of aroma.
7. 7. Serve at room temperature or chilled; the salad holds its flavor for up to 2 hours.

Tips for Success

• Use a big pot so the pasta has room to move and stays from sticking.
• Rinse the pasta briefly with ice water to keep the spirals firm and prevent sogginess.
• Pat mozzarella balls dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
• Add basil at the end; prolonged mixing bruises the leaves and dulls flavor.
• If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; keep the dressing separate to maintain texture. Reheat is unnecessary—serve cold or at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the pasta alone without cheese; thaw and combine fresh mozzarella and basil when ready to serve.

Notes

Rinsing the pasta stops cooking and keeps the spirals firm. Add basil at the last minute to preserve its bright flavor.

FAQs