Irresistible Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad: Your Ultimate Fresh & Easy Summer Side Dish

This Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a vibrant celebration of classic Italian flavors, perfectly combined with the satisfying heartiness of pasta. It’s a beautifully balanced dish, featuring tender farfalle (bow tie pasta) tossed with crisp romaine lettuce, sweet cherry tomatoes, succulent mozzarella balls, and a rich, creamy homemade basil dressing. Whether you’re planning a lively summer cookout, seeking a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner solution, or looking for an ideal make-ahead meal prep option, this salad delivers fresh taste and effortless elegance.

About This Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Imagine your favorite classic Caprese salad, with its iconic trifecta of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, transformed into a substantial, satisfying pasta dish. That’s precisely what this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad offers! It’s an elevated twist on a beloved appetizer, bringing together all those bright, summery flavors you adore but with the added heartiness of perfectly cooked farfalle pasta.

The star of this dish, besides the pasta, is undeniably the homemade creamy basil dressing. It’s a luscious blend of fresh basil, savory garlic, zesty lemon, and a hint of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire for an unexpected depth of flavor. This dressing isn’t just an accompaniment; it’s a critical component that coats every piece of pasta, every tender mozzarella ball, and every juicy cherry tomato, creating an explosion of taste in every bite. Guests often find themselves trying to sop up every last drop with a piece of crusty bread – it’s that good!

We start with farfalle, also known as bow tie pasta, chosen not just for its charming shape but also for its ability to catch and hold onto the rich dressing and smaller ingredients. This ensures a consistent, flavorful experience. Crunchy romaine lettuce adds a refreshing counterpoint to the pasta’s chewiness, while halved cherry tomatoes burst with summery sweetness. Those delightful mozzarella balls (especially if you find the marinated kind!) contribute a creamy, milky texture and a subtle tang that rounds out the Caprese profile. With fresh basil both in the salad and blended into the dressing, the herb’s distinct, aromatic presence is truly amplified, making this an ideal dish for warm weather gatherings.

This Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. It shines as a crowd-pleasing side dish for any barbecue, picnic, or potluck, but it’s also substantial enough to serve as a light main course for a casual weeknight dinner. For those who love planning ahead, it’s an absolute dream for summer meal prep, holding up beautifully in the fridge and tasting even better the next day. Get ready to add this to your regular rotation!

Essential Ingredients for Caprese Pasta Salad

Crafting a truly exceptional Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad begins with selecting the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture:

• Farfalle pasta (bow tie pasta): This is our pasta of choice, not just for its charming shape but also because its “wings” are excellent at catching and holding onto the rich, creamy dressing. It adds a delightful visual appeal to the dish. If farfalle isn’t available, other short, robust pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or orecchiette work wonderfully too. For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free pasta can be used as a seamless substitute.
• Romaine lettuce: Essential for adding a refreshing crunch and a vibrant green hue that beautifully contrasts with the creaminess of the dressing and mozzarella. Its crisp texture is key to preventing the salad from feeling heavy.
• Mozzarella balls: Often found as “bocconcini” or “ciliegine” (small cherry-sized balls), these add a soft, milky, and slightly tangy bite. If you can find the marinated variety, they infuse extra herbaceous flavor without any additional effort. Otherwise, plain fresh mozzarella balls are perfectly delicious. Make sure they are drained well.
• Cherry tomatoes: These little bursts of summery sweetness are non-negotiable. Halve them to ensure that every forkful contains that juicy, bright tomato flavor. Grape tomatoes are an excellent alternative if cherry tomatoes are harder to find. Look for ripe, firm tomatoes for the best taste.
• Fresh basil: The heart and soul of any Caprese dish! You’ll need a generous amount of fresh basil for both the vibrant creamy dressing and to tear and toss into the salad itself. Its aromatic, slightly peppery, and sweet notes are what truly define the Caprese experience. Always opt for fresh over dried herbs for this recipe – the difference in flavor is immense.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Incorporated into both the creamy dressing and sprinkled generously throughout the salad, Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth that enhances all the other flavors. Freshly grated is always superior to pre-shredded for its superior texture and melting quality.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy, luscious base for our incredible dressing. We typically use full-fat mayonnaise for the richest texture, but if you prefer a lighter option, light mayonnaise can be used without significantly altering the flavor profile.
• Dijon mustard: Just a touch of Dijon mustard introduces a subtle tang and a slight kick to the dressing, balancing its richness and adding complexity.
• Worcestershire sauce: This might seem like an unexpected addition, but a small splash of Worcestershire sauce brings an incredible depth and umami punch to the dressing, making it truly irresistible.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, finely minced, are vital for that pungent, aromatic kick in the dressing. You can either mince your own or use good quality store-bought minced garlic for convenience.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dressing, adding a necessary acidity that cuts through the richness and enhances the flavors of the basil and vegetables. While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, fresh offers a superior, less sour taste.
• Olive oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil helps emulsify the dressing, giving it a silky, smooth texture. Choose a mild, flavorful olive oil that won’t overpower the delicate notes of the basil and other ingredients.
• Salt & pepper: These essential seasonings are used to round out all the flavors. We highly recommend using kosher salt for its consistent texture and freshly cracked black pepper for its bold aroma and spice. Season to taste, adjusting until the flavors sing!

Kitchen Must-Haves for This Recipe

While this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is straightforward to make, having the right tools can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable:

• High-speed blender or food processor: For achieving that perfectly smooth and creamy basil dressing, a high-speed blender is ideal. We love our Vitamix for its power, but any blender capable of handling thicker sauces will work. If you don’t have a blender, a good quality food processor will also do an excellent job of emulsifying the dressing and finely chopping the basil.
• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking your pasta properly. A large pot allows enough room for the pasta to move freely, preventing it from sticking together and ensuring an even cook.
• Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently after cooking.
• Large mixing bowl: You’ll need a spacious bowl to comfortably combine all the salad ingredients and toss them thoroughly with the dressing. This prevents spills and ensures every component is well-coated.
• Chef’s knife and cutting board: For prepping the fresh ingredients like halving cherry tomatoes, tearing basil leaves, and potentially mincing garlic. Sharp tools make prep quick and safe.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Creating this delicious pasta salad is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for a perfect Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad every time:

1. Perfectly Cook Your Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. The salt is crucial here, as it seasons the pasta from the inside out. Once the water is boiling, add your farfalle (bow tie pasta) and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Immediately drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly with cold water. This crucial step stops the cooking process, prevents the pasta from sticking together, and helps cool it down quickly, which is essential for a cold pasta salad. Set the cooled pasta aside in a large bowl.

2. Whip Up the Creamy Basil Dressing

While your pasta cooks, prepare the star of the show: the creamy basil dressing. In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Add a generous portion of fresh basil leaves (about 1/3 cup, tightly packed). Blend these ingredients until they are perfectly smooth and the basil is fully incorporated, creating a vibrant green hue. With the blender or food processor motor still running on a low speed, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil. Continue blending until the dressing is beautifully emulsified and has a smooth, creamy consistency. Finally, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and blend briefly to combine. Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings with additional salt and pepper as needed. Transfer to a sealed container and refrigerate until assembly.

3. Assemble Your Caprese Masterpiece

Now for the fun part! In the large bowl containing your cooled pasta, add the crisp romaine lettuce (chopped), halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls (drained), and the remaining torn fresh basil leaves. Pour the creamy basil dressing generously over all the ingredients. Using large tongs or a spatula, gently toss everything together until every piece of pasta and every ingredient is thoroughly coated in that vibrant green dressing. Finish with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

4. Chill for Enhanced Flavors

While you can certainly serve this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad immediately, its flavors truly blossom and deepen when given a little time to meld. For the best experience, cover the bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the individual ingredients to absorb the wonderful nuances of the dressing. In fact, this salad holds up incredibly well and often tastes even better a few hours later, or even the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.

Pro Tips and Tricks for the Best Pasta Salad

To ensure your Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is always a showstopper, keep these handy tips in mind:

• Make it ahead for superior flavor: This salad is a fantastic make-ahead dish. The flavors truly deepen and meld beautifully as it sits. Prepare it a few hours in advance, or even overnight, to achieve maximum deliciousness. Just remember the lettuce tip below!
• Toss the lettuce just before serving: If you’re making this pasta salad for a party or meal prepping it, hold off on adding the romaine lettuce until right before you plan to serve. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and keeps its fresh, crisp texture intact.
• No blender? No problem! If you don’t have a high-speed blender, a food processor will work perfectly for the dressing. Alternatively, you can finely mince the basil and garlic by hand, then vigorously whisk all the dressing ingredients in a bowl until thoroughly combined and emulsified. It might take a bit more arm power, but the result will still be delicious.
• Short on time? Use store-bought dressing: While our homemade creamy basil dressing is truly exceptional and highly recommended, we understand that sometimes time is of the essence. In a pinch, you can use a high-quality store-bought basil dressing, creamy Italian dressing, or even a good Italian vinaigrette. Just be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings as store-bought options can vary widely in flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key! Overcooked pasta will become mushy and won’t hold up well in the salad, especially after chilling. Set a timer and follow package instructions closely.
• Rinse pasta thoroughly: Rinsing with cold water immediately after draining stops the cooking process and removes excess starch, preventing the pasta from clumping and keeping it separate and tender for the salad.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Salad

While this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative with these delicious variations:

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp: Transform this side dish into a complete main course by adding chopped grilled chicken breast or succulent shrimp. Rotisserie chicken leftovers work beautifully for a quick protein boost.
• Swap in different greens: For a peppery bite that adds another layer of flavor, replace some or all of the romaine lettuce with fresh arugula. Spinach or mixed greens can also be used for a milder touch.
• Boost with more vegetables: Feel free to add more fresh veggies to the mix. Diced cucumber, bell peppers (red or yellow for color!), thinly sliced red onion, or even blanched asparagus pieces would be fantastic additions to give the recipe more texture and “oomph.”
• Introduce a balsamic drizzle: For an extra layer of classic Caprese flavor, consider a light drizzle of balsamic glaze (a reduced balsamic vinegar) just before serving. It adds a lovely sweet and tangy note.
• Try different cheeses: While mozzarella is traditional, small cubes of provolone or a mix of mozzarella and fresh feta cheese could offer an interesting flavor variation.
• Spicy kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the dressing or sprinkled over the top can provide a pleasant warmth.

Craving more fresh pasta salad recipes? Explore these favorites: Summer Lemon Pasta Salad | Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad | Thai Peanut Pasta Salad | Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad | Pesto Chicken Pasta Salad

Can I Prepare Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad in Advance?

Absolutely, and we highly recommend it! This Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is one of those magical dishes that actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had ample time to meld and deepen in the refrigerator. The pasta fully absorbs the rich basil dressing, and all the ingredients become even more harmonious.

If you’re making it a day ahead, here’s a pro tip: for optimal freshness and crispness, we suggest keeping the romaine lettuce separate until you are ready to serve. You can assemble the pasta, mozzarella, tomatoes, and dressing, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just before serving, simply toss in the chopped romaine, and you’ll have a perfectly vibrant and crisp salad. This salad will maintain its deliciousness in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining.

How Long Does This Pasta Salad Stay Fresh in the Fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. As mentioned, the romaine lettuce tends to be the first ingredient to lose its crispness, potentially wilting slightly over time. If you plan on enjoying this salad over several days, or if you’re preparing it for meal prep, it’s best to store the dressing and the lettuce separately from the pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella. Then, simply combine them in individual portions just before eating to ensure that refreshing crunch. This method ensures maximum freshness and enjoyment throughout the week.

Can I Substitute with Store-Bought Dressing?

Technically, yes, you can use a store-bought dressing. In a pinch, a good quality basil vinaigrette, creamy Italian dressing, or even a pesto-based dressing could work as a shortcut. However, we wholeheartedly encourage you to try the homemade creamy basil dressing in this recipe. It truly elevates the entire dish! The fresh basil, combined with the subtle tang of Dijon, the savory depth of Worcestershire, and the bright lemon juice, creates a flavor profile that store-bought options simply can’t replicate. Once you experience the vibrant, fresh taste of this homemade dressing, we’re confident you’ll never want to go back to pre-made versions for your Caprese pasta salad.

Need more inspiration for incredible summer recipes? Don’t miss my dedicated summer recipes page for a wealth of ideas!

What to Serve with Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad

This versatile Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is a perfect companion to a wide array of dishes, making it an ideal choice for nearly any meal or occasion. Its fresh, bright flavors and hearty texture allow it to effortlessly complement both light and robust main courses.

It pairs exceptionally well with anything hot off the grill, enhancing the smoky flavors of your favorite BBQ fare. Think perfectly grilled chicken, a juicy New York strip steak, or even vibrant mango garlic shrimp skewers. It’s a solid, refreshing side dish for classic summer cookout staples like gourmet burgers or hot dogs, adding a touch of Italian flair to your backyard spread. Beyond side dish status, its substantial nature means it’s hearty enough to serve as a satisfying main course for a light lunch or a casual dinner, especially when those summer temperatures soar.

For those looking for something a little lighter yet still flavorful, consider pairing it with savory grilled turkey burgers. If you’re aiming for a more elegant presentation, this pasta salad beautifully complements a perfectly flaky grilled salmon with charred corn avocado tomato salsa, or serve it alongside a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread and a chilled glass of crisp white wine for a delightful alfresco dining experience. It also makes a fantastic, easy-to-pack addition to any picnic spread, alongside fresh fruit salad, crispy chips, and other summer favorites. No matter the occasion, this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad is sure to be a welcomed and delicious addition.

Storage Instructions for Leftovers

To Store: Keep any leftover Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If the salad has already been fully dressed with the romaine lettuce, it’s best to consume it within 3 days for optimal freshness and texture. For longer storage (up to 4 days) and to prevent the lettuce from wilting, it is highly recommended to store the lettuce separately and only mix it into individual portions just before serving.

More Refreshing Summer Side Dishes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of fresh, vibrant side dishes perfect for warmer weather, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic recipes:

• Watermelon Feta Salad: This incredibly light and refreshing salad is the epitome of summer, hitting that perfect sweet-salty balance. Juicy, cubed watermelon combines beautifully with creamy, crumbled feta cheese, fresh basil, and invigorating mint, all brought together with a zippy dressing. It’s a delightful palate cleanser and a must-have for hot days.
• Smoky Charred Corn: Bring bold, irresistible grilled flavor to your table with this simple yet impactful side. Fresh corn on the cob is beautifully charred, then slathered with a smoky butter that takes it to another level. It’s an absolute must for any BBQ, picnic, or casual backyard gathering.
• Summer Lemon Pasta Salad: Bright, zesty, and bursting with delightful textures, this pasta salad is another crowd-pleaser. Featuring tender penne pasta, savory roasted peppers, creamy mozzarella, and a light lemon herb dressing, it’s an easy make-ahead option that always earns rave reviews.

Finally, if you try this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad recipe, please be sure to give it a star recipe rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing about your cooking adventures and truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. I personally read and respond to every single comment, and I’m always happy to answer any questions you might have!

Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! It brings me so much joy to see these delicious creations come to life in your kitchens – it genuinely means the world to me!

Want to be the first to know when I release a new recipe or share the latest culinary news? Sign up for my newsletter to get delicious updates delivered straight to your inbox!

Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad

This delightful Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad brings together the classic fresh flavors of Caprese with the satisfying heartiness of farfalle pasta. Tossed with crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and a vibrant homemade basil dressing, it’s an incredibly flavorful, easy-to-make side dish that’s ideal for summer gatherings, quick weeknight meals, or convenient meal prep.

Prep Time: 15 minutes mins

Cook Time: 10 minutes mins

Total Time: 25 minutes mins

Servings: 8

No ratings yet

Print

Pin

cook modeprevent your screen from going dark

Equipment Required

• Large Stockpot
• Vitamix Blender
• Large Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

For the Creamy Basil Dressing:

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 4 garlic cloves minced (fresh is best!)
• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves tightly packed
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Additional Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, for final adjustment

For the Salad:

• 1 lb farfalle (bow tie pasta), cooked al dente and cooled
• 1 head romaine lettuce chopped (add just before serving for best crunch)
• 2 cups mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained; use marinated if available for extra flavor
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved (grape tomatoes also work)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves torn, for tossing into the salad
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Detailed Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the farfalle (bow tie) pasta and cook according to package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta immediately in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.
• Prepare the Creamy Basil Dressing: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/3 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and vibrant green.
• Emulsify the Dressing: With the blender or food processor running on low speed, slowly and steadily drizzle in the 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil through the opening in the lid. Continue blending until the dressing is fully emulsified and has a smooth, creamy consistency. Turn off the motor, then add the 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Cover and blend again on low speed just until combined. Taste the dressing and adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor balance. Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
• Assemble the Salad: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the cooled, drained pasta, chopped romaine lettuce, drained mozzarella balls, halved cherry tomatoes, and the 1 cup of torn fresh basil leaves. Pour the prepared creamy basil dressing over the salad ingredients. Using large tongs or a spatula, toss everything thoroughly until all components are evenly coated with the dressing. Serve immediately for a fresh crunch, or for even deeper flavor, chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve*.

Video

Notes

*For optimal flavor development, we highly recommend chilling the pasta salad for at least 1 hour (and preferably longer, up to several hours) before serving. This allows the dressing to fully meld with and infuse into all the ingredients.

**If you are preparing this Caprese Bow Tie Pasta Salad for meal prep or for serving at a later event, it is best to store the romaine lettuce separately. Toss the lettuce into individual portions of the pasta salad just before serving to maintain its crispness and prevent wilting. The rest of the salad components (pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and dressing) will keep well in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 557kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 21mg | Sodium: 424mg | Potassium: 261mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 762IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 195mg | Iron: 1mg

Calories: 557kcal

Cuisine: American, Italian

Category: Side Dish