This Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic Italian favorite. Tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fragrant basil are tossed in a smooth, tangy dressing that’s both rich and refreshing. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, herby, and bright — making it ideal for summer lunches, barbecues, or easy weeknight dinners.
Every bite brings together the cool freshness of a Caprese salad and the comforting heartiness of pasta. It’s quick to prepare, gorgeous on the table, and guaranteed to impress guests or family alike.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s what gives this salad its delicious flavor and how you can easily make swaps if needed:
Pasta: Short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle works best — they catch the dressing and hold the toppings beautifully. Whole wheat or chickpea pasta also works well for extra nutrition.
Cherry Tomatoes: Add juicy sweetness and vibrant color. Grape tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes make great alternatives.
Fresh Mozzarella: Mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella balls add creamy richness. You can use marinated mozzarella for an extra burst of flavor.
Fresh Basil: The heart of any Caprese dish. Tear leaves gently for the best aroma. Substitute with baby spinach if basil isn’t available.
Mayonnaise: Creates a silky base for the dressing. Swap half for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.
Sour Cream: Adds smoothness and a subtle tang. Plain Greek yogurt also works perfectly.
Balsamic Glaze: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to balance the creaminess. If you don’t have glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar until thick and syrupy.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian herbs, and black pepper bring everything together with classic Mediterranean flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk or fork
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Pesto Caprese: Add a spoonful of basil pesto to the dressing for an herby upgrade.
- Grilled Chicken: Turn it into a complete meal by adding chopped grilled or rotisserie chicken.
- Roasted Veggies: Mix in roasted bell peppers or zucchini for a warm-weather twist.
- Spicy Touch: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Lighter Version: Use only Greek yogurt in place of mayo and sour cream for a leaner, protein-packed salad.
How to Make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (or thick balsamic vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
About 25 minutes total — 10 minutes for cooking pasta, 10 minutes for prep, and 5 minutes to mix and chill.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely before adding the dressing.
2. Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, balsamic glaze, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
3. Combine the salad ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and Parmesan (if using).
4. Add the dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or balsamic glaze if desired.
5. Chill and serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
Pro Tips for Best Texture & Taste
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta keeps its shape and doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with dressing.
- Cool pasta completely: Warm pasta can absorb too much dressing and become sticky.
- Use fresh basil: It brings authentic Caprese flavor — dried herbs won’t compare.
- Chill before serving: Enhances creaminess and lets the flavors develop fully.
- Re-toss before serving: The dressing may thicken in the fridge, so stir and add a splash of olive oil to refresh it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better after chilling for a few hours. Make it up to one day ahead, and stir before serving to revive the texture.
Can I make it without mayo?
Of course. Use Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and olive oil for a lighter, tangy alternative that’s still creamy.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely. Just cook it slightly al dente and cool it completely to prevent sticking or breaking apart.
How long will it last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to 3 days. Add a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic before serving if it thickens.
What goes well with Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or seafood. It’s also perfect as a stand-alone lunch with a slice of garlic bread or a side of fruit.