This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a wonderful mix of flavors! It combines tender pasta, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil all tossed in a light dressing.
It’s quick to make and perfect for picnics or barbecues. I love serving it chilled on warm days. Grab a fork and get ready to enjoy a delicious bite of summer anytime! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini holds the dressing well with its twists. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or farfalle if that’s what you have on hand.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet tomatoes are perfect for freshness. If they’re out of season, use regular tomatoes, diced, but be sure to add a touch of sugar to enhance their flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creaminess of mozzarella adds to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based mozzarella or even diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a wonderful aroma. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil can work in a pinch; just use less since it’s more concentrated.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: This creamy combo is key for dressing consistency. Greek yogurt can be a healthy swap for either for added protein, or try vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make a Perfect Creamy Dressing for My Pasta Salad?
Getting your dressing right is important for flavor! Here’s a simple step-by-step to help ensure it’s creamy and delicious:
- In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1/4 cup sour cream. Stir until smooth.
- Add in 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar for tanginess, plus 1 clove minced garlic for flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and taste – adjust if needed.
For an extra touch, try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness! Remember, letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows those flavors to mingle nicely.
How to Make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Total time is about 45 minutes. This means you can easily whip it up for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. Combine Your Veggies and Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh basil leaves. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until you have a smooth and creamy dressing.
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the pasta and veggies are well coated with the dressing. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Chill and Serve:
Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the salad before serving. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those wonderful flavors blend together!
6. Enjoy!
Your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is now ready! Serve cold and enjoy this refreshing and delicious dish!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise or Sour Cream?
Absolutely! For a lighter alternative, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream. It adds creaminess with less fat. You can also use dairy-free mayonnaise or sour cream if you’re looking for a vegan option.
What Can I Use Instead of Rotini Pasta?
If you don’t have rotini, other types of pasta like penne, fusilli, or even farfalle will work great! Just make sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture in the salad.
How Should I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs the dressing and becomes dry, just add a splash of balsamic vinegar or olive oil when serving to refresh it.
Can I Add Other Ingredients To This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is versatile. Try adding ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Just keep in mind that bulky additions may require more dressing!
