This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad is my go-to summer side, combining tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella in a bright balsamic dressing. After testing countless variations, I’ve found that using fresh, high-quality basil and ripe tomatoes makes all the difference. This Easy Caprese Pasta Salad comes together in under 20 minutes and delivers classic Italian flavors with minimal effort.

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

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Author: Dorothy Miller

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound small pasta (e.g., fusilli, orecchiette, or penne)
16 ounces mozzarella balls (such as ciliegine or pearls)

3 cups cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed

Instructions

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Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe