This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh mix of pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. The creamy pesto dressing makes every bite flavorful and exciting!
It’s the perfect dish for warm days, and you can whip it up in no time! I love serving it at picnics because it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Orecchiette is fun because of its unique shape, but feel free to use any pasta you like. Fusilli, penne, or farfalle work well, too. Just pick your favorite!
Basil Pesto: Fresh basil pesto really makes this dish pop. If you can’t find fresh pesto, use store-bought or even a jarred version. For a nut-free option, blend spinach with olive oil and garlic.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color. Substitute with grape tomatoes or even diced bell peppers for a different twist if you prefer.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using bocconcini for its creamy texture. If you can’t find it, try using shredded mozzarella or even feta for a tangy flavor instead.
Heavy Cream: The cream is optional for richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap it with Greek yogurt or just add extra pesto for creaminess without the heaviness.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Pasta Salad Texture?
Creating a great pasta salad means having the right texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the pasta al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite. You’ll avoid mushy pasta that loses its shape when mixed.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and helps cool it quickly.
- Mix your pasta with pesto while it’s still warm to help absorb those flavors, but don’t let it sit for too long before adding the other ingredients!
With these tips, you’ll have a creamy and delightful pasta salad every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Light And Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Dressing:
- 12 oz orecchiette or any pasta of your choice
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Salad Additions:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an optional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. It’s a quick and refreshing dish that’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. This will help stop the cooking process and keep it from getting mushy.
2. Mix with Pesto:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the fresh basil pesto. Use a spoon or spatula to toss the pasta until it’s completely coated in the pesto. This helps infuse every bite with that delicious flavor!
3. Add Tomatoes and Mozzarella:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls to the pasta. Gently fold everything together to mix them in without squishing the mozzarella. The little bites of cheese and juicy tomatoes will add delightful bursts of flavor!
4. Stir in Cream:
If you’re aiming for extra creaminess, now’s the time to stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until everything is combined and adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a lighter salad, you can skip this step!
5. Season and Combine:
Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, and season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are well-combined and coated in the creamy pesto.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your colorful pasta salad to a serving dish. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves on top. They add a nice pop of color and flavor!
7. Chill or Enjoy:
You can serve the pasta salad right away, or if you have time, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling will bring all the flavors together beautifully. Either way, enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is a great choice, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This pasta salad tastes even better after chilling. Prepare it up to a day in advance, but hold off on adding the fresh mozzarella until just before serving to keep it fresher. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta seems dry after chilling, you can add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of cream to refresh it before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want to keep the dish lighter or dairy-free, you can omit the heavy cream entirely or substitute it with Greek yogurt or a splash of pasta cooking water for added creaminess. Just remember that omitting heavy cream may slightly change the richness of the salad!
