Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Favorite

Do you love the bright, fresh flavors of summer salads but also crave the comfort of pasta? My Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze is just the thing you need. This recipe combines juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, fragrant basil, and perfectly cooked pasta, all drizzled with a sweet-tart balsamic reduction. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for picnics, potlucks, meal prep, or anytime you want a taste of sunshine!

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make this easy Caprese pasta salad, share chef-approved tips for getting it just right, and answer your top questions. Let’s bring those classic Italian flavors to your table in the yummiest way!

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Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad

There’s something irresistible about a simple Caprese salad. With perfectly ripe tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fresh basil, each bite is a celebration of summer. By adding pasta and a luscious balsamic glaze, you’ll not only make a heartier dish but also infuse it with crave-worthy flavor and texture.

This recipe is:

• Quick and easy: Ready in 30 minutes or less
• Fresh and nourishing: Packed with vegetables and protein
• Meal prep friendly: Tastes even better the next day
• Perfect for entertaining: A guaranteed hit at BBQs and family gatherings
• Budget-friendly: Uses staple ingredients available at any grocery store

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this Caprese pasta salad will earn a spot in your regular rotation. Plus, the homemade balsamic glaze adds a hint of gourmet—without the hassle!

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The Secret to a Flavorful Caprese Pasta Salad

The magic of this recipe lies in its balance: chewy al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, and balls of dreamy mozzarella all brought together by fresh basil and an irresistible balsamic glaze. Here’s what you need to know:

Choosing the Right Pasta

Not all pasta shapes are created equal! For this salad, you want a short pasta with nooks and crannies to catch the dressing and bits of basil. Top choices include:

• Penne
• Fusilli (spirals)
• Rotini
• Farfalle (bow ties)
• Cavatappi

Pro Tip: Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works beautifully for a healthier twist.

The Freshest Ingredients Make the Difference

• Tomatoes: Sweet cherry or grape tomatoes provide juicy pops of flavor.
• Mozzarella: Look for mozzarella pearls or cut a fresh mozzarella ball into bite-sized pieces.
• Basil: Fresh basil leaves are essential—dried just doesn’t have the same magic!

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Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ins

Make the recipe your own with these easy swaps and flavor boosters. Here’s a handy table for reference:

Ingredient	Swap Option	Extra Add-Ins
Cherry Tomatoes	Heirloom tomatoes, SunGold, or grape tomatoes	Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes
Fresh Mozzarella	Bocconcini, burrata, vegan mozzarella	Feta or goat cheese for tang
Pasta	Gluten-free pasta, whole wheat pasta	Tri-color rotini for a fun look
Basil	Baby spinach, fresh arugula	Fresh oregano or parsley (sparingly)
Balsamic Glaze	Store-bought balsamic reduction	Pesto drizzle, lemon zest

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How to Make Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

Making this recipe couldn’t be simpler, but a few expert tips will guarantee your salad is full of flavor and never soggy.

Pasta Salad Do’s & Don’ts

• Do: Salt your pasta water generously for flavor.
• Do: Rinse pasta after cooking—it stops the cooking and prevents sticking.
• Do: Use the freshest mozzarella and basil you can find.
• Don’t: Overcook your pasta; aim for just al dente.
• Don’t: Toss pasta with dressing while hot; let it cool first or the cheese may melt.
• Do: Chill before serving for best flavor—I love it cold or at room temperature.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store Caprese Pasta Salad

This salad is endlessly versatile. Serve it in a big bowl for a backyard BBQ, pack it for lunch, or pair with grilled chicken or salmon for a satisfying dinner.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• If meal prepping, add fresh basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving for the brightest flavor.
• Tastes great chilled or brought to room temperature for 15 minutes.

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Health Benefits & Basic Nutrition Info

With fresh cheese, ripe veggies, and olive oil, this Caprese pasta salad is Mediterranean diet approved and packed with nutrients. Here’s a snapshot of the nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Calories	Carbohydrates	Fat	Protein	Fiber
300	38g	11g	13g	3g

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FAQ: Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze

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Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) short pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine or bocconcini), halved
• 1 packed cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine or white balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/3 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade*)
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or walnuts

For Homemade Balsamic Glaze:

• 1 cup good-quality balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled pasta with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil. Mix everything gently to combine.
4. Optional: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. Add extra basil and a crack of black pepper to finish.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

*To make homemade balsamic glaze:

1. Pour 1 cup of balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has reduced by half and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Stir in honey if you like it sweeter. Let cool before drizzling.

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Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories	Carbs	Fat	Protein
300	38g	11g	13g

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Final Tips for Pasta Salad Perfection

• Use quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
• Slightly undercook pasta if making ahead—it will soak up some dressing as it chills.
• Leftover salad keeps up to 3 days; add fresh basil and more balsamic glaze before serving to freshen it up.

Ready to give this Caprese pasta salad a try? Gather your ingredients, swirl that balsamic glaze, and watch guests line up for seconds. If you share on Pinterest or Instagram, tag me—I love to see your beautiful salads!

Happy cooking, friends!