Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Update : February 17, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh, vibrant flavors and is perfect for any occasion. It combines the classic tastes of a Caprese salad with the heartiness of pasta, making it a filling and nourishing meal. This salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, perfect for busy days, potlucks, and summer gatherings. Plus, it can be served cold or at room temperature, making it a fantastic choice for picnics or backyard barbecues.

How to Make Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients

12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or diced mozzarella
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1 cup fresh basil leaves (for pesto)
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (for pesto)
2 tablespoons pine nuts (or walnuts)
1 clove garlic
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Juice of ½ a lemon (optional)

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Prepare the Pesto Dressing: In a food processor or blender, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, Parmesan, ⅓ cup olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
Adjust the Consistency: If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or extra olive oil. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding lemon juice for extra brightness if desired.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto dressing, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
Add the Tomatoes and Mozzarella: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle torn basil leaves (¼ cup) over the salad for freshness and presentation.
Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: For best flavor, let the salad sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

How to Serve Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or other summer favorites. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.

How to Store Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 5 days. If the salad thickens in the fridge, simply add a splash of olive oil or water before serving to help loosen it up.

Tips to Make Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor, especially the basil and mozzarella.
Feel free to add some veggies, like bell peppers or olives, for extra taste.
If you don’t have pine nuts, walnuts are a great alternative!

Variation

You can customize this salad by adding grilled chicken for a protein boost or swapping in whole grain pasta for a healthier option. Additionally, try using different types of cheese, such as feta, for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the tomatoes and mozzarella until shortly before serving, to keep them fresh.

2. What if I don’t have a food processor for the pesto?
You can manually chop the ingredients and mix them together in a bowl if you don’t have a food processor. Just make sure to finely chop the basil and garlic to mix well.

3. Can I freeze the pesto?
Yes, you can freeze pesto! Just store it in an airtight container or ice cube trays. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Now you have a tasty and simple recipe to enjoy on any occasion!