There is nothing like a classic caprese salad topped with a balsamic glaze on a hot summer day. It’s one of my favorite dishes – we make it maybe once a week all summer long. Simple ingredients like fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves feel like summer on a plate. A caprese pasta salad is a delightful twist on the classic Italian caprese salad, which traditionally features fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This vibrant and refreshing dish combines these beloved ingredients with al dente pasta, creating a perfect summer salad that’s both satisfying and light. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, caprese pasta salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for picnics, barbecues, and family gatherings. 

Easy Summer Caprese Pasta Recipe With Balsamic Glaze

Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients like heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and high-quality extra virgin olive oil ensures the best results. This is one of those dishes I like to make right after a trip to the grocery store. I put this together moments after getting home with groceries – the ingredients couldn’t have been more fresh. You can use grape tomatoes, but I love heirloom tomatoes – they are so sweet and add a little color to your plate.

Gluten-Free Pasta: You can make this with any traditional pasta, but I chose to use gluten-free pasta. This dish is perfect for those seeking a gluten-free option without compromising on taste. Opt for a smaller pasta shape, such as fusilli, penne, or bowtie, which works well in pasta salads.

Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella balls or fresh mozzarella chunks add a creamy, delicate texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Fresh Heirloom Tomatoes or Grape Tomatoes: Garden tomatoes are perfect for their rich, complex flavors and beautiful colors. Cooking them lightly in olive oil enhances their natural sweetness.

Fresh Basil Leaves: Fragrant basil adds an aromatic and peppery note that elevates the dish.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This high-quality oil is essential for both cooking the tomatoes and dressing the salad.

Balsamic Glaze: This reduction of balsamic vinegar adds a sweet and tangy finish.

How to Make Caprese Pasta

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gluten-free pasta and cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes, depending on the brand. The brand I purchased cooked for 13 minutes and was perfect. Once cooked, drain pasta and pour into a serving bowl. 

Cook the Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, heat extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the heirloom tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. The goal is to enhance their natural sweetness without breaking them down completely.

Assemble the Salad

Combine Pasta and Tomatoes: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the sautéed heirloom tomatoes, along with the juices from the skillet. This helps coat the pasta with the tomato-flavored olive oil. If you want the mozzarella to melt a little bit, put the pasta back into the pot after draining, and add the ingredients into the still-warm pot. 

Add Basil and Mozzarella: Slice or tear fresh basil leaves into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl. Mix in fresh mozzarella balls or chunks of fresh mozzarella cheese.

Drizzle with Olive Oil and Balsamic Glaze: Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the salad. This enriches the flavors and keeps the salad moist and flavorful. Top with a generous drizzle of balsamic glaze. 

Season to Taste: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Once plated, I recommend adding another drizzle of balsamic glaze to each plate. 

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This caprese pasta recipe can be served as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or a green salad for a balanced meal.