Pasta Salad Caprese Recipe

If you love the flavors of a classic Caprese salad but crave something heartier, this Pasta Salad Caprese is about to become your new go-to summer dish. Bursting with vibrant cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a zippy white balsamic vinaigrette, every bite is a celebration of color and flavor. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, a potluck, or just a lively weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is as easy to put together as it is delicious to share. Trust me, once you try this Pasta Salad Caprese, you’ll find any excuse to make it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pasta Salad Caprese keeps things refreshingly simple, relying on the highest quality ingredients to shine. Each component brings something special to the table, whether it’s irresistible texture, vivid color, or a flavor punch that makes this salad sing. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Small Pasta: Farfalle, rotini, or small shells each carry the dressing well and make every forkful pop with flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil forms the base of your dressing, so choose one you love for its fruity depth.
• White Balsamic Vinegar: Brings tang and subtle sweetness without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
• McCormick® Perfect Pinch® Gluten Free Salad Supreme Seasoning: This blend gives the salad depth, a bit of zest, and irresistible herb notes.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Their juicy pop and bright color make every bite more summery and refreshing.
• Mozzarella Balls: Creamy, mild flavor in every bite-sized ball for authentic Caprese flair.
• Baby Spinach Leaves: Tender greens that bring freshness and a dose of vibrant color.
• Thinly Sliced Red Onion: Adds a gentle sharpness and crunch, balancing out the richness.

How to Make Pasta Salad Caprese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of small pasta, and cook it according to the package instructions until just al dente. Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking, then drain it thoroughly so there’s no excess water diluting your dressing. This step makes sure your Pasta Salad Caprese is the perfect base for soaking up those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

While the pasta cools, grab a large bowl and whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, and the Salad Supreme seasoning. This simple mixture is where the magic happens—fragrant, slightly tangy, and layered with all those lovely herbs and spices. The result is a dressing that clings to every noodle and every veggie.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Add your cooled pasta to the bowl, followed by the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, baby spinach, and red onion. Toss everything together with a gentle hand so nothing breaks apart, ensuring every ingredient gets a generous coating of that mouthwatering dressing. Each stir releases aroma and anticipation—your Pasta Salad Caprese is already looking irresistible!

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Once the salad is fully combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. The flavors just get better as they mingle in the fridge! When it’s time to eat, give the salad another quick toss, then serve it up cold or at room temperature for maximum enjoyment.

How to Serve Pasta Salad Caprese

Garnishes

A final flourish can take your Pasta Salad Caprese from good to show-stopping. Scatter a few extra sprigs of fresh basil or a dusting of grated Parmesan over the top for color and an extra layer of flavor. A drizzle of good olive oil or a little cracked black pepper is always welcome, too.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple crusty bread to mop up every last bit of dressing. For picnics and potlucks, serve alongside other fresh salads, fruit, or a charcuterie board to make a well-rounded meal everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your imagination run wild! Serve Pasta Salad Caprese in individual jars for picnics, pile it high on a bed of arugula for an even greener base, or turn it into fun appetizer skewers with a toothpick through chunks of pasta, cheese, and tomato. It’s an eye-catching, crowd-pleasing centerpiece however you display it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover and refrigerate any leftover Pasta Salad Caprese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve, making tomorrow’s lunch even tastier. If the pasta dries out a bit, just toss it with a splash more olive oil before serving.

Freezing

While it’s technically possible to freeze this salad, it’s not recommended. Freezing tends to change the texture of the mozzarella, tomatoes, and spinach, leading to a less appealing experience. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple days of making.

Reheating

Pasta Salad Caprese is meant to be served cold or at room temperature! If you’d like, let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off, but there’s no need to reheat. This makes it perfect for packed lunches, picnics, or anytime eating is spontaneous and fun.

FAQs

Can I use regular balsamic vinegar if I don’t have white balsamic?

Absolutely! Traditional balsamic will give your Pasta Salad Caprese a darker color and a deeper, richer flavor. The result is still delicious, just a touch more robust than the lighter, brighter notes from white balsamic.

What if I can’t find mozzarella balls?

No worries—just buy a block of fresh mozzarella and cut it into bite-sized cubes. The creaminess will still shine through and work beautifully with the rest of the ingredients.

Is there a substitute for the Salad Supreme seasoning?

If you don’t have Salad Supreme, try mixing together a blend of your favorite Italian herbs, a bit of garlic powder, paprika, and sesame seeds for a similar herby, zesty effect. You can make it your own!

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Cucumber chunks, roasted red peppers, or even artichoke hearts would be lovely additions to this Pasta Salad Caprese. Just keep in mind the classic Caprese vibe as you experiment with add-ins.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

Pasta Salad Caprese is ideal for prepping a day ahead. Simply keep it refrigerated, and add any extra greens or garnishes just before serving for peak freshness and color.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat, Pasta Salad Caprese is your answer. Enjoy making it, sharing it, and savoring every last bite—this recipe is guaranteed to add a touch of summer sunshine to any table!

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