If you’re searching for the ultimate summer side that’s as stunning as it is satisfying, look no further than this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad. Imagine all the classic flavors of a traditional Caprese — sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and peppery basil — tossed with al dente pasta and wrapped in a velvety, tangy dressing. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser at picnics, potlucks, or busy weeknights, bringing together everything you adore in a Caprese salad while delivering extra creaminess and heartiness. Whether you’re sharing it at your next get-together or enjoying a bowl all to yourself, this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is sure to be the star of your table!

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to a fantastic Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad lies in its fresh, simple ingredients working together in perfect harmony. Each one adds its own special character, color, and texture, guaranteeing big flavor with every bite.

Pasta (12 ounces rotini or bowtie): Pick a short, twisty shape that holds onto dressing and catches tidbits of basil, tomato, and mozzarella in every forkful.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): These little gems burst with sweetness and add a pop of vibrant color.
Fresh mozzarella balls (1 cup, halved if large): Soft, milky morsels that become creamy and dreamy once coated in the dressing.
Fresh basil leaves (½ cup, chopped or torn): Aromatic and bright, basil is key for that authentic Caprese punch.
Mayonnaise (⅓ cup): The base of the dressing, adding irresistible creaminess to every bite.
Sour cream (¼ cup): Brings a tangy note and lightness, making the salad luscious yet refreshing.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Enhances the flavor and silkiness of the dressing.
Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds sweet-tart depth and that signature Caprese zip.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Keeps the flavors bold while blending evenly into the creamy sauce.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Brightens all the flavors and brings them together.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A subtle kick to balance each mouthful.

How to Make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Start by cooking your rotini or bowtie pasta in rapidly boiling, well-salted water until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when tossed with the creamy dressing. Drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse with cold water—this stops the cooking and cools it down so your mozzarella and basil stay fresh and vibrant.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dreamy Dressing

In your biggest mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until totally smooth and luscious. This magical combination is what brings the dish together, coating every twist of pasta in tangy, savory goodness. Make sure your dressing is well-blended, as it will gently cradle all the other ingredients.

Step 3: Fold Everything Together

Add the cooled pasta to your bowl of dressing, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil. Gently toss everything until each piece is evenly coated. Take care not to smash the tomatoes or break up the mozzarella too much—the salad is best when every element keeps its shape and has room to shine. Your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is coming to life!

Step 4: Chill for Maximum Flavor

While it’s tempting to dig in right away, patience pays off here. Cover the bowl and refrigerate your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld together, the pasta absorbs all that creamy, tangy dressing, and everything becomes extra delicious. When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle toss and do a quick taste test—add a sprinkle more salt or fresh basil if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Whether served straight from the fridge or at room temperature, your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is now ready to delight. Bring it to the table as a show-stopping side or add your favorite protein for an easy, complete meal. This dish is the definition of summer comfort food: fresh, creamy, and completely irresistible!

How to Serve Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Top your Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad with a cascade of extra fresh basil, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze for a burst of color and tang. A grind of fresh black pepper adds a little extra bite, and a few whole mozzarella balls or heirloom tomato halves make the presentation truly eye-catching.

Side Dishes

This salad is incredibly versatile! Pair it with grilled chicken, herby roast vegetables, or crusty bread for a light summer supper. It also plays beautifully with picnic classics like grilled corn, veggie skewers, or even simple prosciutto-wrapped melon. Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad brings balance wherever it goes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad in individual mason jars for a portable picnic treat, or spoon it onto a large chilled platter and arrange extra basil and tomato slices on top. It also makes a festive addition to potluck buffets—just pile it high in a beautiful bowl and garnish generously for maximum visual impact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. As it sits, the pasta might soak up some of the dressing—just give it a stir before serving, and add a splash of olive oil or a spoonful of mayo if it needs a refresh.

Freezing

While pasta salads generally don’t freeze well due to their creamy dressings and delicate fresh ingredients, it’s best to enjoy Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad fresh. The textures of the mozzarella and tomatoes can change in the freezer, so make just enough to savor within a few days.

Reheating

This salad is perfect served chilled or at room temperature, which keeps the fresh veggies and herbs at their best. If you’d like it a little warmer, let it sit out for 15–20 minutes before eating—no need to heat in the microwave, as this may cause the cheese to melt and the dressing to separate.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Side Dish

Absolutely! Short shapes like penne, fusilli, or shells all work beautifully in Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it keeps a pleasant bite and holds the creamy dressing well.

Is there a lighter version of the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream or even use a light mayonnaise to cut down on richness while keeping the creamy texture. The salad stays tangy and fresh, just a bit lighter on the palate!

Can I make Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Definitely! Making it a few hours ahead or even the night before gives the flavors time to meld. Just wait to add the fresh basil and an extra drizzle of balsamic glaze until serving for the brightest flavor and color.

What proteins can I add to make this a main dish?

Grilled chicken, sliced Italian sausage, or bite-sized pieces of salami are fantastic additions. For a vegetarian boost, try tossing in chickpeas or white beans for an extra punch of protein and texture.

How do I stop the pasta from sticking together after cooking?

Rinsing the cooked pasta under cold water not only stops the cooking process but also removes surface starch, preventing clumping. Toss the cooled pasta with a splash of olive oil before adding the dressing for even better separation.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard not to fall in love with a dish as fresh, colorful, and creamy as this Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad. Whether you’re hosting a big backyard dinner or just craving something special for lunch, this is pure sunshine food that always delivers. Don’t wait for summer—gather your ingredients and treat yourself to the flavors of Italy in a single, irresistible bowl!

Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of this delightful Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad. Bursting with flavors of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, this dish is a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces rotini or bowtie pasta

Dressing:

1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine, halved if large)
½ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped or torn)
⅓ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, then cool under cold water.
Prepare the dressing: Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine ingredients: Mix pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in the dressing.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.