5 Ingredient Caprese Pasta Salad

A close-up of an Easy Italian Pasta Salad with rotini, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella chunks served in a decorative bowl in a kitchen setting.

If you need the kind of recipe that disappears at every BBQ, cookout, or pool day — this 5 Ingredient Caprese Pasta Salad is it. It’s fresh, colorful, loaded with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tossed in that classic zesty Italian dressing flavor everyone loves.

The secret? Letting it sit. This is one of those recipes that gets even better after a few hours (or overnight), making it the perfect make-ahead pasta salad for summer gatherings, meal prep, or easy entertaining.

Pictures of Ingredients

Finished Product

A hand serves Easy Italian Pasta Salad—rotini with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cubes, and fresh basil—from a large metal mixing bowl into a white dish.

A close-up of an Easy Italian Pasta Salad featuring rotini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cubes, and fresh basil on a kitchen counter. The background showcases a checkered teapot and a farmhouse-style sink.

A bowl of Easy Italian Pasta Salad with rotini, halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and cubes of mozzarella cheese sits on a kitchen table.

A woman in a black off-the-shoulder top smiles while holding a large bowl of Easy Italian Pasta Salad with tomatoes, basil, and cheese in a bright kitchen with white cabinets and flowers nearby.

🤔 Common Questions

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes — this is actually one of the best recipes to make ahead. It tastes even better after sitting overnight.

Can I use bottled Italian dressing instead?

Absolutely. Use about 6–8 oz of your favorite Italian dressing for an easy shortcut.

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What pasta works best for pasta salad?

Short pasta like fusilli, rotini, or bowties work best because they hold onto the dressing.

Before You Cook (Tips for Success)

Salt your pasta water — it’s your only chance to season the pasta itself
Cook pasta just to al dente so it holds up after chilling
Let pasta cool slightly before mixing so it doesn’t melt the mozzarella
Use fresh basil, not dried — it makes a huge difference here

Melissa Jo

5 Ingredient Caprese Pasta Salad

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Fresh, easy, and packed with flavor, this Italian pasta salad is made with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil tossed in zesty Italian dressing. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for BBQs, parties, or meal prep — and tastes even better the next day.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Servings: 5 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

1 lb fusilli pasta
2 pints tri-color cherry tomatoes halved
8 oz mozzarella cheese cubed
2 oz fresh basil chopped
1 packet Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix prepared according to package

Optional shortcut:

Swap homemade dressing for 6–8 oz store-bought Italian dressing

Method

Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta.
Add halved cherry tomatoes and cubed mozzarella.
Prepare the Italian dressing mix according to the package instructions (or use store-bought).
Pour dressing over the pasta and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Add chopped fresh basil and gently mix.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours — overnight is even better.

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👝 How to Store Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Stir before serving to refresh the texture. Keep chilled until ready to serve (especially for outdoor events)