Tanya Rivers
Bright, refreshing, and bursting with summer flavors, this Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad is a colorful twist on the classic Italian caprese. Tender rotini pasta pairs beautifully with juicy strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil. A drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze ties it all together for a dish that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
This salad is perfect for picnics, backyard barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner. It’s light yet satisfying, giving you the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad
This salad is a crowd-pleaser because it’s both beautiful and incredibly easy to make. It comes together in under 30 minutes and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. The combination of sweet strawberries with creamy mozzarella and bright basil creates a unique flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Can I Use Any Type of Pasta for This Salad?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the dressing and ingredients in its spirals, you can also use bowtie, penne, or fusilli. Just be sure to choose a pasta shape that can hold onto the flavors and textures of the dressing and toppings.
Ingredients for the Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad
Every ingredient in this salad plays an important role in creating that perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors:
- Rotini pasta – Its spirals capture the dressing and hold the toppings well.
- Fresh strawberries – Add natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) – Creamy and mild, they balance the sweetness of the fruit.
- Fresh basil leaves – Bright and aromatic, they give the salad its signature caprese flavor.
- Balsamic glaze – Provides the tangy-sweet finish that ties all flavors together.
- Olive oil & salt – Enhance the flavors of the salad and give it a subtle richness.
How To Make the Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad
Follow these easy steps to bring this delicious pasta salad together:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries and Basil
Hull and slice fresh strawberries. Chop or tear the basil leaves into smaller pieces for easy bites.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, strawberries, mozzarella balls, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Serving and Storing Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad
This salad is best served chilled and can feed 4 to 6 people as a side dish or 3 to 4 people as a light main course. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If storing, add the balsamic glaze just before serving to keep the pasta fresh and prevent sogginess.
What to Serve With Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad?
Enhance your meal by pairing this refreshing salad with these delicious options:
1. Grilled Chicken
Tender grilled chicken adds a hearty protein to make this salad a complete meal.
2. Garlic Bread
Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the freshness of the salad.
3. Lemon-Herb Salmon
The citrusy and herby flavors of salmon pair wonderfully with the sweet strawberries.
4. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon
A light and salty side that complements the salad’s sweetness.
5. Sparkling Lemonade
A refreshing drink that balances the tangy and sweet flavors.
6. Caprese Skewers
Double up the caprese theme with mini skewers of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
7. Roasted Vegetables
Simple roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus pair perfectly with this summer salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the pasta and prepare the strawberries a few hours in advance. Combine everything except the balsamic glaze, which should be added just before serving for the best texture.
2. What can I use instead of mozzarella balls?
Cubed fresh mozzarella or even feta cheese can be used if bocconcini or ciliegine are unavailable.
3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
It’s best to stick with fresh strawberries for this recipe. Frozen ones release too much water and can make the salad soggy.
4. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil before adding the other ingredients.
5. Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Yes! Blueberries, blackberries, or even sliced peaches can add a fun twist and extra bursts of flavor.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?
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Fresh Strawberry Caprese Pasta Salad
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 0.25 cup balsamic glaze
- 0.5 tsp salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Slice strawberries and chop basil leaves.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, strawberries, mozzarella balls, and basil. Drizzle with olive oil and gently toss.
- Finish with balsamic glaze before serving. Serve immediately or chill for up to 2 hours.