Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Isabella Rames 0 Comments
Total Time: 55 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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Grab your fork: this creamy pesto Caprese pasta salad bursts with fresh basil, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes for a flavor-packed summer side
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Now that summer is in full swing and backyard barbecues are around every corner, I’ve fallen head over heels for this Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad. It’s one of those recipes that feels like sunshine in a bowl—bright pops of cherry tomatoes, pillowy mozzarella nestled against twists of al dente pasta, all coated in a luscious pesto-mayo dressing that somehow manages to be both rich and refreshing. If you’ve ever craved something that tastes decadent yet leaves you feeling light, this is your new go-to. I first made it on a lazy Sunday afternoon when I had a jar of homemade basil pesto begging for use and a haul of heirloom tomatoes from my local farmers’ market. Five minutes into tossing everything together, I knew I was onto something special.

Every forkful balances creamy, tangy, and herbal in a way that keeps you reaching back for more. The basil in the pesto (you can absolutely use store-bought if you’re short on time) lends that unmistakable garden-fresh zing, while a splash of lemon juice brightens things up and keeps the flavors from getting too heavy. And if you’re a mozzarella lover like me, the little bocconcini balls are practically irresistible. This pasta salad is a breeze to whip up—just 15 minutes of hands-on prep, 10 minutes of cooking, then about a 30-minute chill in the fridge while the ingredients get to know each other. In total, you’re looking at around 450 calories per serving, making it the perfect light lunch, dinner side, or picnic centerpiece.

I’ve served this at book club, pool parties, and even packed it for road-trip lunches. Guests always ask for seconds, and frankly, I’m not about to tell them no. It’s beginner-friendly, but it feels gourmet—no fancy techniques required, just honest-to-goodness ingredients coming together. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, need a pick-me-up for a weekday lunch, or want to impress without breaking a sweat in the kitchen, this pasta salad has got you covered. So preheat your playlist, grab your biggest mixing bowl, and let’s dive into everything you’ll need and how to assemble this crowd-pleaser.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN LIGHT AND CREAMY PESTO CAPRESE PASTA SALAD

Before we dive into the fun of tossing and seasoning, let’s break down the stars of the show. Each ingredient brings its own personality, from texture to flavor, so you get that perfect balance of creaminess, freshness, and brightness in every bite.

  • Pasta

Rotini or farfalle are ideal because they hold onto the creamy pesto dressing in all their nooks and crannies. Plus, their playful shape makes every forkful feel like a celebration.

  • Cherry Tomatoes

Halved to reveal their juicy insides, these little bursts of red add a sweet-tart zing. They also bring a pop of color that makes the salad look as good as it tastes.

  • Fresh Mozzarella Balls

Whether you choose bocconcini or ciliegine, these mini mozzarella pearls deliver that signature Caprese creaminess. Their soft, chewy texture contrasts beautifully with the pasta.

  • Fresh Basil Leaves

Chopped and sprinkled through the salad, basil offers an herbal freshness that complements the pesto and ties everything together with its fragrant aroma.

  • Pesto

You can use store-bought convenience or make your own for peak freshness. Its rich blend of basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic is the flavor anchor of the dressing.

  • Mayonnaise

This secret hero adds extra smoothness to the pesto dressing, giving it a velvety texture that clings to every ingredient.

  • Olive Oil

A drizzle of good-quality extra-virgin olive oil helps emulsify the dressing and heightens the overall mouthfeel with a fruity finish.

  • Lemon Juice

Freshly squeezed for that lively tang, lemon juice cuts through the richness and makes the flavors pop.

  • Salt and Pepper

Simple seasonings that you adjust to taste—essential for rounding out the dressing and amplifying all the fresh ingredients.

HOW TO MAKE LIGHT AND CREAMY PESTO CAPRESE PASTA SALAD

Let’s transform these gorgeous ingredients into a pasta salad masterpiece. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bowl of vibrant, creamy goodness ready to chill and mingle in the fridge in no time.

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente—you want a slight bite so it holds its shape in the salad. Once cooked, immediately drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly. Set it aside in a large bowl.

2. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves. Use a wide, shallow bowl so you can toss everything evenly in the next step.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pesto, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and homogenous—no streaks of mayo or pesto lumps.

4. Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta mixture. Using a large spoon or pasta fork, toss gently to coat every piece of pasta and every tomato and mozzarella ball, making sure no ingredients stick to the sides of the bowl.

5. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt, freshly ground pepper, or an extra squeeze of lemon juice if you want a brighter zing.

6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to soak up just the right amount of dressing.

7. Before serving, give the salad one final quick stir to redistribute any dressing that settled. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant finish.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR LIGHT AND CREAMY PESTO CAPRESE PASTA SALAD

When it’s time to enjoy this salad, think of it as a versatile star of any meal. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats or serving it solo on a hot afternoon, these ideas will help you present it just right.

  • Chilled Picnic Platter

Serve the pasta salad in a chilled bowl alongside a selection of cold cuts, olives, and crusty bread. The contrast between the creamy salad and the savory sides makes for an effortlessly stylish outdoor spread.

  • Family-Style Dinner Centerpiece

Spoon the salad onto a large wooden board or shallow dish, and scatter extra basil leaves and grated Parmesan over the top. Let everyone help themselves family-style for a warm, communal vibe.

  • Light Lunch Box

Portion into individual containers for a perfectly balanced meal on the go. Add a wedge of lemon on the side and a small container of extra dressing in case you want a zesty drizzle just before eating.

  • Garnished Appetizer Cups

Fill small decorative cups or ramekins with a single serving, then top each with a basil sprig and a mini skewer of cherry tomato and mozzarella. These bite-sized presentations are perfect for cocktail parties or buffet lines.

HOW TO STORE LIGHT AND CREAMY PESTO CAPRESE PASTA SALAD

Storing this pasta salad correctly ensures it stays just as delightful days after you make it. The creamy dressing can meld flavors beautifully, but you also want to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Proper sealing locks in moisture and keeps the salad from absorbing any odors from other foods. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days, though it’s at its very best within the first two days.

  • Refrigerated in an airtight container: Transfer the salad immediately after serving into a clean, dry container with a tight lid. Smooth the top of the salad flat to minimize air pockets, which helps maintain freshness.
  • Separate dressing and salad (make-ahead): If you want the pasta to stay extra firm, store the dressing in a small jar separately. Just toss them together when you’re ready to eat, and the pasta will retain its texture perfectly.
  • Top-up technique: After a couple of days, you might notice the dressing settles. Simply give the salad a gentle stir and, if needed, add a splash of olive oil or a drizzle of lemon juice to revive the creaminess.
  • Freezing (not recommended): Because of the fresh mozzarella and mayonnaise, freezing can alter the texture and consistency. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.

CONCLUSION

This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is the summer recipe you’ll turn to again and again. From the vibrant cherry tomatoes bursting with juice to the soft mozzarella that melts in your mouth, every bite sings with freshness and flavor. The pesto-mayo dressing ties it all together in a silky coating that clings to the pasta and veggies, giving you a balanced, satisfying dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a laid-back weeknight meal. With only a few simple steps—boil, toss, whisk, and chill—you’ll have a gourmet-worthy side or main that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. Plus, the 15-minute prep and 10-minute cook time mean you can whip it up even when your schedule is packed.

Go ahead and print this article to keep it handy in your recipe binder, or save it on your favorite device so you can revisit it whenever you need a bright burst of summertime goodness. You can even bookmark it to check out the FAQ below for more tips and common troubleshooting ideas. And of course, I’d love to hear how your pasta salad turns out—did you add grilled chicken for extra protein? Did you sneak in a splash of balsamic for an extra tangy kick? Drop your comments, questions, or feedback below, and let me know if you need any help along the way. Happy mixing, chilling, and indulging!

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Print Recipe

Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Author: Isabella Rames
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 55 mins
Calories: 450

Description

Creamy pesto meets juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil tossed with al dente pasta for a bright, satisfying salad that keeps you cool and energized all season.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pesto, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  4. Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and garnish with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.

Note

  • This salad can be made a day in advance for even more flavor development.
  • For extra creaminess, you can add a bit of Greek yogurt to the dressing.
  • Feel free to add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a heartier version.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the pesto dressing.
  • This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch.
Keywords: pesto pasta salad, caprese pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, summer salad recipe, easy side dish, fresh basil salad
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Frequently Asked Questions

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How long can I store leftover Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad and what’s the best way to keep it fresh?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Before sealing, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the salad’s surface to minimize air exposure, then replace the lid. Give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute any dressing that may have settled.

Can I prepare this salad in advance, and will the textures hold up?

Yes—you can assemble the salad and dress it up to 24 hours ahead. The flavors will meld more deeply, though the mozzarella can absorb some dressing over time. To preserve the cheese’s texture, you can add the mozzarella and basil just before serving if you prefer a firmer bite.

What are some suitable pasta alternatives or substitutions for dietary needs?

You can use gluten-free rotini or farfalle to keep it gluten-free, or swap in whole wheat pasta for added fiber. If you’d like a lower-carb option, zucchini ribbons, spiralized carrots, or chickpea pasta work well—just adjust the cooking time according to the package or doneness you prefer.

How can I make the dressing even creamier without overpowering the pesto flavor?

To boost creaminess, fold in 2–3 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or an extra spoonful of mayonnaise. Stir gently to maintain the pesto’s vibrant aroma. If you want a tangier edge, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use vegan mayonnaise in place of regular mayo, and swap out the fresh mozzarella for dairy-free mozzarella alternative or cubed firm tofu. Ensure your pesto is dairy-free (omitting Parmesan or using a vegan substitute) for a fully vegan salad.

How can I add protein or make this salad more filling for a main course?

Stir in sliced grilled chicken, shrimp, or cubed cooked tofu for extra protein. You can also toss in roasted chickpeas or cannellini beans for a vegetarian protein boost. Add these ingredients once the pasta has cooled to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to adjust seasoning and acidity without overdressing the salad?

Start with the recipe’s base measurements, then taste after tossing. If you’d like more brightness, add lemon juice one teaspoon at a time. For salt balance, incorporate kosher salt incrementally—about one-quarter teaspoon per adjustment—so you don’t oversalt. Finish with freshly ground black pepper to your preference.

Isabella Roberts

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hey my name is Isabella, I’m so glad you’re here. As a culinary enthusiast and mother, I love sharing quick, healthy, and family-friendly recipes. My cookbook and blog blend tradition with innovation, inspiring delicious moments in the kitchen. Join me on this flavorful journey!

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