Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad for a Crowd
Make this simple, crowd-pleasing Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad. It uses fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil tossed in a light, creamy dressing, perfect for potlucks or summer BBQs.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Total Time: 25 min
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook (Assembly)
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (Bocconcini), drained
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- While the pasta cools, prepare the creamy dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
- Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This makes it a great make ahead pasta salad.
- If desired, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Notes
- For the best texture, do not overcook the pasta; it should remain firm since it will continue to soften slightly in the dressing.
- If you are making this salad ahead of time, wait to add the fresh basil until just before serving to keep its color bright.
- This salad is an excellent side dish for BBQ gatherings or picnics.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning to the dressing mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 42
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 14
- Cholesterol: 30
Find it online: https://www.purecookingjoy.com/creamy-caprese-pasta-salad/