Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

As the aroma of fresh basil fills the air, your mind drifts to sun-drenched picnics and family gatherings. This Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad comes together in just about 30 minutes and shines with vibrant flavors and colors, making it a memorable dish for any occasion. The combination of chewy pasta, creamy mozzarella, and fresh veggies makes it an irresistible option for summer meals.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing, no-cook dish. Serve it for a light lunch, as a side at barbecues, or for potlucks. It also stores well, so making it ahead of time is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The bow-tie pasta adds a fun and unique texture.
• Fresh mozzarella brings a creamy contrast to the bright veggies.
• Basil pesto offers a rich, herbaceous flavor without extra cooking.
• It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various main courses.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful salad:

For the Salad

• 1 lb uncooked bow-tie pasta
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (plus more if needed)
• 1 ½ to 2 c baby spinach, stemmed
• 1 pt cherry tomatoes, sliced (about 2 c)
• 8 oz bocconcini, drained and halved

For the Dressing

• ¾ c basil pesto (or one 6 oz jar prepared basil)
• ¼ c Italian dressing

For Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper

Consider using homemade pesto for a fresh twist.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use any pasta shape you prefer.
• Swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangy flavor.
• Substitute spinach with arugula for a peppery kick.
• Opt for sun-dried tomatoes for a richer taste.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to assemble your pasta salad:

Boil

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta as directed on the package.

Drain

Drain pasta and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Mix

Transfer to a large serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and stir. Let cool completely.

Combine

Stir in the pesto and Italian dressing until evenly coated.

Add

Add the spinach, tomatoes, and mozzarella, then toss to combine.

Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill

Cover the pasta and refrigerate until ready to serve. If the pasta seems dry before serving, you can add an additional 1 ½ tsp of olive oil.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, pasta texture may change.
Reheat: enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the pasta is completely cooled before mixing in the dressing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Use high-quality pesto for the best flavor.
• Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling, as flavors meld over time.
• Mix the salad right before serving for the freshest experience.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish at summer barbecues.
• Pair with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Enjoy at picnics for a refreshing, portable lunch.