This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and tasty dish! It’s filled with pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a swirl of vibrant pesto sauce.
It’s perfect for lunch or a picnic! I love how quick it is to make — just toss everything together and you’re ready to impress! Your taste buds will thank you! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is great for this salad, but feel free to mix it up! Short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or penne work well too. Use what you have on hand!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of red and yellow tomatoes for color. If they’re out of season, cherry tomatoes can be swapped for diced regular tomatoes, but you’ll lose some sweetness.
Fresh Mozzarella: The little mozzarella balls (bocconcini) are perfect for this dish. If you can’t find them, you can use regular mozzarella cut into small cubes or even crumbled feta for a different flavor.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought pesto is quick and convenient. If you want a homemade touch, blend fresh basil, garlic, nuts, cheese, and olive oil. Nut-free or dairy-free variations can be made easily!
How Can I Make the Creamy Dressing Smooth and Flavorful?
The creamy dressing makes this pasta salad special. It’s simple to whip up! The combination of pesto and Greek yogurt creates a bright, fresh flavor.
- In a small bowl, mix the pesto sauce and Greek yogurt (or light mayo). This adds creaminess without a heavy feel.
- Whisk in olive oil and balsamic vinegar for extra depth. If you want less tang, skip the vinegar.
- Make sure to mix these well until smooth; no lumps!
Drizzling this dressing over the pasta allows for a deliciously creamy finish. Ensure every piece of pasta is coated for maximum flavor!
Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 12 ounces orecchiette pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow if desired)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for a subtle tang)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you are looking at around 45 minutes for a delightful meal or side dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In the same bowl as your cooled pasta, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves. This will add vibrant colors and wonderful flavors to your salad.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, plain Greek yogurt (or light mayonnaise), olive oil, and balsamic vinegar (if using) until smooth and creamy. Mix well to avoid any lumps—this dressing is what makes your salad creamy and delicious!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the pasta and vegetable mix. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the beautiful green sauce.
5. Season the Salad:
Take a moment to season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste. Don’t be shy, a little seasoning goes a long way!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy this pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy your fresh, light, and creamy pesto Caprese pasta salad! It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or simply a tasty meal at home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a fantastic choice, you can use any short pasta shape that you love, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and you’re all set!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this pasta salad dairy-free, you can substitute the fresh mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives or simply omit it. For the creamy dressing, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in place of Greek yogurt, and ensure your pesto is also dairy-free.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just prepare the salad and dressing as directed and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served chilled.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply toss the salad gently and add a little extra dressing if it seems dry.
