Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad Recipe

Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that brings sunshine to any table, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, weekday lunch, or breezy picnic. Bowtie pasta mingles with juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy mozzarella balls, and a perfectly balanced pesto-balsamic dressing — delivering all the flavors of a classic Caprese with a delightfully vibrant, satisfying twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad is how straightforward the ingredients are — and let me tell you, each one brings its own magic to the bowl. From the tender pasta to the fresh basil and tangy balsamic, every element plays a starring role in creating the salad’s irresistible flavor, creamy texture, and bright color.

• 1/2 bouillon cube (or chicken broth): Infuses the pasta with savory flavor, so the taste shines through in every bite.
• 6 oz farfalle pasta (bowtie), dry: Its playful shape soaks up the dressing and cradles the other ingredients for a fun, hearty bite.
• 1 large (or 2 small) shallots, minced: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor that doesn’t overpower but enhances everything beautifully.
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet, juicy, and colorful — they add a burst of freshness and pop of color.
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: That signature aromatic note that makes every Caprese dish taste like summertime in Italy.
• 3 oz mini mozzarella balls: Creamy and mild, these pearls of cheese give the salad its satisfying richness.
• 1/4 cup pesto: The heart of the flavor! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade for herby depth.
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Brings a tangy-sweet brightness, balancing the creamy and savory notes perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Just enough to tie all those flavors together without overpowering the freshness.

Variations

The best part about Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad? It’s endlessly customizable! Feel free to put your own spin on it based on what’s in your fridge, your dietary needs, or those last-minute cravings. There’s really no wrong way to toss this summer classic together.

• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap the farfalle for your favorite wheat-free or whole-grain pasta to suit dietary preferences or boost fiber.
• Lighten It Up Further: Try using part-skim mozzarella balls or a lighter pesto variety for a lower-calorie option.
• Add Protein: Toss in cooked shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or even chickpeas to make this salad a complete meal.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in baby spinach, arugula, roasted red peppers, or diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan mozzarella and a dairy-free pesto to transform this into a plant-based delight.

How to Make Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil & Flavor the Pasta

Start by filling a big pot with water and bringing it to a rolling boil. Drop in the half bouillon cube (or use chicken broth directly) — this clever trick seasons your farfalle from the inside out, setting a foundation of savory flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Add your farfalle and cook according to package instructions, typically 10–11 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. As soon as the pasta is cooked, drain it — but skip the rinse! Keeping the pasta warm and undisturbed helps all those flavors absorb beautifully in the next step.

Step 3: Combine the Fresh Ingredients

Transfer the hot, drained pasta to a roomy mixing bowl. Add in the halved cherry tomatoes, minced shallot, freshly chopped basil, and those irresistible mini mozzarella balls. You’ll see the salad come alive with vibrant color and texture right away.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing

Pour over the pesto, balsamic vinegar, and sprinkle in the kosher salt. Give everything a gentle but thorough toss, making sure every bowtie pasta and every tomato gets bathed in all the herbaceous, tangy goodness. The aroma at this point will make you want to sneak a bite — and honestly, who could blame you?

Step 5: Chill or Serve Room Temp

You can either serve your Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad right away for a warm, gently melty effect, or pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Either way, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

Garnishes

For a gorgeous finishing touch, sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves and a few extra mozzarella balls over the top just before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or an extra splash of balsamic reduction also adds a bit of shine and a burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with grilled chicken, crisp focaccia bread, or a platter of assorted antipasti for the ultimate Italian-inspired feast. It’s also lovely alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for lighter fare.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad in a large, shallow bowl lined with basil leaves, or portion it into individual mason jars for a picnic-ready treat. For parties, skewer the salad ingredients on toothpicks to make adorable, bite-sized pasta salad hors d’oeuvres!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it fantastic for meal prepping or easy grab-and-go lunches all week.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad, as the texture of the mozzarella and tomatoes can change once thawed. The fresh ingredients really shine best when enjoyed straight from the fridge within a few days.

Reheating

This is a salad best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it lightly warmed, let it sit out for 20–30 minutes before serving. There’s no need to reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fresh, satisfying, and wonderfully easy recipe, I truly hope you give this Light Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad a try. It’s the kind of dish that never fails to impress yet feels like the hug of a summer day — simple, colorful, and packed with crave-able flavor. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share it with friends!

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