Name: Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini or penne pasta; 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls or diced; ½ cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup balsamic vinegar; 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

There’s something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of pasta salad. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together at picnics, barbecues, and summer potlucks. And when it’s a Caprese Pasta Salad drizzled with homemade balsamic glaze? It’s more than just a side—it becomes the centerpiece of the table. This recipe is inspired by the simple, fresh flavors of the traditional Caprese salad: juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and that tangy-sweet balsamic touch that makes every bite pop.

I first made this salad on a hot Saturday afternoon when I had some leftover mozzarella balls from pizza night and way too many cherry tomatoes from the garden. I tossed everything together with some pasta and made a quick glaze on the stove. Honestly, it was one of those dishes that came together without much planning but totally stole the show at dinner.

What makes this salad truly special is how effortlessly it blends bold flavors with refreshing textures. The pasta gives it substance, while the fresh basil and tomatoes brighten every bite. The balsamic glaze adds a hint of sweetness and tang that ties everything together. Plus, it looks stunning in a bowl—those vibrant reds, whites, and greens are basically summer in edible form.

Whether you’re making it for a family get-together, prepping a few meals for the week, or just craving something light but satisfying, this Caprese Pasta Salad checks all the boxes. It’s fast, easy, and tastes like sunshine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad has quickly become one of my favorite go-to dishes, and after one bite, I’m pretty sure it’ll be yours too. Here’s why:

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients and about 20 minutes of your time, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. The steps are simple, and everything comes together in one bowl—no complicated techniques, no stress.

Second, the flavors are vibrant and satisfying. The juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, the soft richness of mozzarella, and the peppery freshness of basil combine beautifully. Add the chewy texture of perfectly cooked pasta and a tangy balsamic glaze that coats everything in a sweet-savory finish, and you’ve got an unforgettable flavor combo.

Third, it’s family-friendly and versatile. Kids love it because of the pasta and mild cheese, while adults appreciate the freshness and balance of flavors. You can serve it as a side, enjoy it as a light lunch, or bulk it up with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Finally, it’s perfect for making ahead. The salad stays delicious for days in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep or bringing to a picnic or potluck. Just add the glaze before serving to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

Health Benefits

While this salad tastes indulgent, it’s actually packed with nutrients. Pasta provides energy-sustaining carbohydrates, and when made from whole wheat or legume-based options, it adds extra fiber and protein. Cherry tomatoes are full of antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.

Fresh mozzarella is a great source of calcium and protein, and since we’re using a moderate amount, it keeps the dish balanced. Basil brings its own benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and essential vitamins like A and K.

The balsamic vinegar not only adds depth of flavor but also offers antioxidants and may help regulate blood sugar levels. And by making the glaze at home, you can control the amount of sugar and skip any preservatives often found in store-bought versions.

With olive oil as the finishing touch—a heart-healthy fat full of omega-3s—this Caprese Pasta Salad delivers on both taste and nutrition.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 20 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: 390
Protein: 13g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g

Ingredients List

For the Salad:

12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work best), cooked al dente and cooled
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved for maximum flavor
8 oz fresh mozzarella, diced or use mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine) for convenience
½ cup fresh basil, chopped or torn by hand for a rustic touch
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for richness and shine
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Balsamic Glaze:

½ cup balsamic vinegar (use a good-quality one for best results)
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar for natural sweetness

These ingredients are simple, but each one plays an important role. The tomatoes bring brightness, the cheese adds creaminess, the basil infuses freshness, and the glaze ties everything together with its sweet and tangy kick.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta from sticking.
Prep the Fresh Ingredients:
While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice or drain the mozzarella, and chop or tear the basil. Set everything aside in prep bowls to make assembly easy.
Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar). Bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it reduce for about 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle in the olive oil and season with salt and black pepper. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
Finish with the Balsamic Glaze:
Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad. Start with a tablespoon or two, toss, and taste. Add more if desired. The glaze adds a big punch of flavor, so go slowly and taste as you go.
Chill and Serve:
For best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to marry and the pasta to soak up all those delicious flavors.

How to Serve

This salad is wonderfully versatile and can be served in several ways:

As a main dish for a light summer lunch or dinner
As a side for grilled chicken, turkey sausages, or marinated tofu
On a buffet table alongside other fresh salads and finger foods
In a lunchbox for an easy, make-ahead meal that holds up well

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, here are some great pairings:

Main Dishes: Grilled chicken skewers, baked fish fillets, or herb-marinated turkey breast
Side Dishes: Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp cucumber salad
Drinks: Iced herbal tea with lemon, sparkling water with mint and cucumber, or a chilled fruit smoothie
Desserts: Fresh fruit salad, lemon sorbet, or a slice of olive oil cake

These combinations enhance the flavors of the Caprese Pasta Salad while keeping the meal light and refreshing.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This dish is excellent for meal prep or saving leftovers:

Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, and add a fresh drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze if needed.
Freezing: Unfortunately, this salad does not freeze well. The tomatoes and mozzarella lose their texture when thawed, and the pasta can become mushy.
Reheating: This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, you can microwave it briefly if you prefer it warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have room for error. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overcooking the pasta: Soft, mushy pasta will ruin the texture. Cook just until al dente and rinse immediately.
Not cooling the pasta: Warm pasta can melt the mozzarella and wilt the basil. Always let it cool.
Using watery mozzarella: Drain any excess liquid from the mozzarella to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Skipping the glaze step: The balsamic glaze is essential—it adds depth and contrast to the dish.
Overdressing: Don’t pour all the glaze at once. Add gradually and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Pro Tips

To make this Caprese Pasta Salad truly shine, keep these tips in mind:

Choose fresh, firm cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.
Use a good-quality balsamic vinegar—the flavor really comes through in the glaze.
Don’t skimp on the basil. Fresh herbs elevate the entire dish.
Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to turn it into a full meal.
Serve slightly chilled for the most refreshing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the salad a day ahead, but wait to add the balsamic glaze until just before serving.

What pasta works best for this salad?
Short pasta like rotini, bowtie (farfalle), or penne works best because it holds the dressing and pairs well with chopped ingredients.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Absolutely. You can swap mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese or use marinated tofu cubes for a similar texture.

Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?
Yes, but homemade gives you more control over sweetness and thickness. If using store-bought, check the ingredient list for added sugars.

How long does the homemade glaze last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will last up to 2 weeks.

Can I use dried basil?
Fresh basil is strongly recommended for flavor and texture. If using dried, reduce the amount to 1–2 teaspoons.

What other vegetables can I add?
Try cucumbers, bell peppers, or arugula for added crunch and color.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute with gluten-free pasta. Chickpea or lentil-based pasta also adds extra protein.

How do I stop the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and toss it with a touch of olive oil before mixing with other ingredients.

Why is my glaze too runny or too thick?
If too runny, simmer it a little longer. If too thick, add a splash of water and whisk until smooth.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze from Better Homebase is everything you want in a warm-weather dish—bright, fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s easy enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough to bring to a party. The simple combination of ingredients creates something greater than the sum of its parts, and once you try it, it might just become a staple in your kitchen too.

I’d love to hear how your Caprese Pasta Salad turns out. Did you add your own twist? Snap a photo and tag me or leave a comment below—your creations always inspire me. Whether you serve it at your next family gathering or pack it for lunch, this dish is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!