Introduction
Looking for a fresh, creamy, and easy-to-make pasta salad? Try this Homemade Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe! It’s a fun twist on the classic Caprese salad that combines cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil—plus a creamy dressing that brings everything together.
This recipe is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch at home. You don’t need to be a cooking expert to make it, and it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. The creamy dressing adds a rich flavor, while the tomatoes and basil keep it fresh and light. Let’s jump into the ingredients and see how easy it is to make this delicious pasta salad.
Ingredients – Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to make the Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or bow tie work great)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped or torn)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins:
- Sliced black olives
- Cooked shredded chicken for extra protein
- A pinch of red pepper flakes if you like spice
Step by Step Process – Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of water. Add some salt to the water and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. You want the pasta to be soft but not mushy—this is called “al dente.”
Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This helps cool it down and stops the cooking process. Let it sit while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you want a tangier flavor, add a little more vinegar.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, add your cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Gently mix to combine everything.
Now pour your creamy dressing over the top. Use a large spoon to toss everything together until the pasta is well coated and the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Once everything is mixed, place the salad in the fridge for about 15–30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors come together and makes the salad even tastier.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste again. Add more salt, pepper, or basil if you like.
- That’s it! Your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is ready to enjoy.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280–320 kcal |
| Protein | 9–11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28–32 g |
| Fat | 15–18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5–6 g |
| Fiber | 2–3 g |
| Sugar | 3–5 g |
| Sodium | 300–400 mg |
| Calcium | 100–150 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have mozzarella balls, you can use cubed mozzarella, shredded mozzarella, or even feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Q2: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If it looks dry, just add a spoonful of extra dressing before serving.
Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s even better when made a few hours ahead. Just wait to add the basil until right before serving to keep it fresh.
Q4: What pasta works best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, farfalle (bow tie), or shells work best. They hold the creamy dressing well and are easy to eat with a fork.
Q5: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a bowl full of flavor, color, and freshness. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something cool, creamy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
You can enjoy it as a main meal, take it to a picnic, or serve it as a side at your next BBQ. Plus, it’s easy to customize. Want it lighter? Use yogurt. Need more protein? Add grilled chicken. Like a bit of crunch? Throw in some pine nuts or cucumber.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a creamy pasta salad that everyone will love—kids and adults alike.
