This Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a refreshing delight! It combines tender pasta, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella balls, all tossed in a creamy pesto sauce.
It’s perfect for warm days when you want something tasty and easy. I love bringing it to picnics, and trust me, it disappears quickly. You just mix, chill, and enjoy—simple as that!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Orecchiette Pasta: This pasta’s unique shape holds onto the sauce beautifully. If you can’t find it, any small pasta shape like fusilli, penne, or rotini will work great too!
Cherry Tomatoes: I love the burst of flavor from both red and yellow tomatoes, but you can use any ripe tomatoes you have. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
Fresh Mozzarella: For that creamy stretch, bocconcini or ciliegine are the best options. If you’re dairy-free, try avocado chunks or marinated tofu for a similar texture.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought pesto is super convenient, but homemade is even better if you have the time! You can also use kale or arugula for a different twist.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Both add creaminess! For a lighter option, consider using plain yogurt. You can skip it altogether for a more traditional pesto salad or use a vegan yogurt substitute.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Doesn’t Get Mushy?
Cooking pasta can seem tricky, but it’s simple if you follow these steps! To get it just right, use a large pot with plenty of water, and don’t forget to salt it. Here’s how:
- Bring water to a rolling boil before adding pasta.
- Set a timer for the recommended cooking time but start checking a minute or two early.
- Look for that perfect al dente texture: it should be firm when bitten but cooked through.
- Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking. This keeps your pasta from getting mushy when mixed with dressing.
By following these steps, you’ll have a lovely, chewy pasta base for your salad!
Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 ounces orecchiette pasta (or any small pasta shape)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup prepared pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for dressing consistency)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed
This tasty pasta salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator for the best flavor. Overall, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Make sure it’s well-drained afterward.
2. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. This is where the fun begins, as you see these colorful ingredients come together!
3. Create the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. If you like a thinner dressing, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Combine Everything
Now, pour the creamy pesto dressing over your pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Make sure every bite will be bursting with flavor!
5. Add Fresh Basil
Fold in the freshly chopped basil leaves, giving your pasta salad a delightful aromatic touch.
6. Season to Perfection
Taste your salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the flavors to your liking!
7. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate your pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can serve it chilled or at room temperature—both are delicious!
Enjoy this fresh, light, and creamy pasta salad as a perfect side dish or light meal! It’s sure to impress your family and friends!
FAQ for Light and Creamy Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While orecchiette is great for holding onto the sauce, you can use any small pasta shape like fusilli, rotini, or penne. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t get mushy.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day! Give it a gentle stir before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the mozzarella with vegan cheese or omit it completely. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in place of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and ensure your pesto is vegan-friendly.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare everything a day in advance; just be sure to cover it well and refrigerate it. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
