There’s something so gratifying about a bowl of pasta salad that balances creamy and bright notes in every forkful. This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is exactly that kind of delight—think tender fusilli spirals tossed in a luscious, tangy dressing, studded with juicy cherry tomatoes, pillowy mozzarella, and ribbons of fresh basil. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it alongside grilled chicken on a weeknight, or simply craving a fuss-free lunch, this recipe checks all the boxes: beginner-friendly, make-ahead magic, and summer-ready flair.
Last weekend, I whipped up a big batch for a backyard barbecue, and friends couldn’t get enough. The mayonnaise and sour cream base gives a rich mouthfeel, while balsamic vinegar and Dijon mustard zing through with just the right amount of acidity. Add in minced garlic for a savory kick, olive oil for silkiness, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to tie everything together, and you’ve got a salad that’s as crowd-pleasing as it is comforting. It takes only 15 minutes to prep, 10 minutes to cook, and then a 30-minute chill for the flavors to really meld—perfect for those busy days when you want something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen. At about 450 kcal per serving, it’s satisfying yet light enough to keep you going.
One of my favorite things about this dish is how customizable it is: swap fusilli for rotini or penne, add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness, or toss in grilled veggies for added texture. As the sun warms up and basil plants flood your windowsill, this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad becomes the go-to recipe you’ll save again and again. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the fresh, vivid flavors of summer!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY CAPRESE PASTA SALAD
To build this vibrant pasta salad, you’ll gather a handful of everyday ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each component brings its own personality—some offer creaminess, others pop with freshness or tang—and together they create a dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.
- Fusilli or Rotini Pasta
Short, spiral-shaped pasta that holds onto the creamy dressing in every nook and cranny, ensuring each bite is perfectly coated.
- Cherry Tomatoes
Sweet, juicy bursts of summer flavor that add vibrant color and a refreshing pop against the creamy backdrop.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls (Bocconcini or Ciliegine)
Soft, milky spheres that lend luxurious creaminess and a mellow, milky taste that complements the tangy dressing.
- Fresh Basil Leaves
Fragrant, aromatic herbs that bring a peppery, slightly sweet lift—chop them just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Mayonnaise
The base of our creamy dressing, adding body and richness that clings to the pasta and ingredients.
- Sour Cream
A tangy partner to the mayo, it lightens the dressing texture while imparting a subtle, refreshing tang.
- Olive Oil
Extra-virgin or mild, it rounds out the dressing with fruity undertones and a silky mouthfeel.
- Balsamic Vinegar
Offers depth and sweet acidity that balances the richness of the mayo and sour cream.
- Dijon Mustard
A small but mighty ingredient, it adds sharpness and emulsifies the dressing for a cohesive texture.
- Garlic Clove
Minced to release its savory, pungent aroma and give the salad a delightful savory edge.
- Salt and Pepper
Essential seasonings that amplify all the flavors—tweak them at the end to suit your taste.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY CAPRESE PASTA SALAD
Making this salad is a breeze, and it comes together in just a few easy stages. You’ll cook, mix, chill, and then enjoy a vibrant pasta creation that’s as beautiful to look at as it is satisfying to eat. Below, each step is broken down to help you achieve pasta salad perfection.
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in generously salted water. Once al dente, drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles. Transfer the pasta to a large bowl and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and halved mozzarella balls, tossing gently to distribute everything evenly.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the dressing is completely smooth and well-emulsified.
4. Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently with a silicone spatula or salad tongs, making sure every spiral and tomato half is coated in that luscious dressing.
5. Sprinkle in the chopped fresh basil leaves and toss again to incorporate the herbaceous notes throughout the salad.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
7. Before serving, give the salad one final toss and taste for seasoning—add more salt and pepper if needed, then dig in!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY CAPRESE PASTA SALAD
When it’s time to plate this beauty, you’ll find there are endless ways to elevate it or pair it with complementary flavors. Here are a few of my favorite serving ideas to turn your salad into a star at any gathering or weeknight table:
- As a Colorful Side Dish
Serve alongside grilled chicken breasts or salmon fillets. The creamy salad pairs perfectly with smoky, charred proteins and adds a burst of freshness to every plate.
- Complete Light Lunch
Scoop a generous portion into a bowl and top with sliced avocado or flaked tuna for extra protein and texture. Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a zesty finish.
- Picnic-Ready in Mason Jars
Layer individual servings in small jars, starting with pasta, then dressing, followed by tomatoes and mozzarella. Seal tightly and keep chilled until you’re ready to enjoy on the go.
- Garnished with Balsamic Glaze
Just before serving, artistically drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the top and finish with a handful of whole basil leaves. The dark glaze adds a gorgeous contrast and sweet finish.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY CAPRESE PASTA SALAD
This pasta salad is truly a make-ahead miracle: flavors deepen and textures harmonize as it rests. Proper storage ensures it stays fresh, creamy, and vibrant for days.
Store your salad in a airtight container in the refrigerator. The sealed environment preserves moisture and prevents the herbs from wilting too quickly. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days.
- Separate the dressing if you plan to keep the salad longer than a day. Store pasta and veggies in one container and dressing in another. Toss together just before serving to maintain optimal creaminess and texture.
- Keep extra fresh basil tucked into a small zip-top bag with a damp paper towel. Add basil just before plate-up to retain its bright color and fragrance.
- If you notice the pasta absorbing too much dressing after a day or two, stir in a splash of olive oil or a tablespoon of extra sour cream to re-emulsify the mixture.
- Avoid freezing this salad, as the dairy-based dressing and fresh vegetables won’t thaw with the same texture and may separate.
CONCLUSION
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad brings together the best of summer’s bounty and the comfort of creamy, tangy dressing, all in one deliciously easy dish. From the moment you whisk together mayo, sour cream, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic, you know you’re in for something special. Tossing that dressing into tender fusilli, juicy cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil creates a symphony of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Because this recipe requires just 15 minutes of hands-on prep, 10 minutes of cooking, and a 30-minute chill time, it’s a perfect choice for beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs alike. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a summer barbecue or simply craving a bright, make-ahead side dish for dinner, this pasta salad delivers every time.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder—your future self will thank you when it’s craving simplicity and satisfaction. Don’t forget, there’s an FAQ section just below if you have any questions about substitutions, storage tips, or troubleshooting common pasta salad hiccups. And of course, I’d love to hear from you: leave comments, share your own twists, or ask for guidance if you run into any roadblocks. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more flavorful summer meals!
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Description
This pasta salad bursts with fresh flavors: creamy dressing, sweet tomatoes, tender pasta spirals, and fragrant basil. Perfectly chilled and make-ahead friendly, it’s a colorful crowd-pleaser for picnics and weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
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Add the chopped fresh basil and toss again to combine.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Note
- You can use any short pasta shape like penne or rotini for a more textured bite.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a little extra sour cream or mayonnaise.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
- For a bit of tang, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the dressing.
- Garnish with more fresh basil before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
