Healthy Caprese Pasta Salad with Butter Beans

This Butter Bean Caprese Pasta Salad is the kind of meal that makes healthy eating feel incredibly easy. It’s fresh, flavorful, satisfying, and comes together with almost no cooking involved.

Aside from boiling the pasta, this is basically a no-cook, one-bowl meal that checks all the boxes. It’s rich in healthy fats from olive oil, packed with fiber from beans and whole grains, and has plenty of satisfying protein from creamy butter beans and mozzarella.

The butter beans are what really make this recipe special. Their soft, creamy texture pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy dressing for a pasta salad that feels hearty enough to be a full meal.

It’s also one of my favorite recipes for meal prep and leftovers because the flavors get even better after a day or two in the fridge. Perfect for easy lunches, summer dinners, picnics, or grab-and-go meals during busy weeks.

Ingredients for Caprese Pasta Salad with Butter Beans (makes 4 servings)

Pasta Salad

• 6 oz dry whole grain pasta
• 1 can butter beans, rinsed and drained (or any white bean or chickpeas)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 6 oz mozzarella balls, halved (or cubed vegan feta or “tofu” feta for dairy-free)
• ¼ cup sliced red onion
• Fresh basil, sliced, for finishing

Dressing

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 Tbsp white balsamic vinegar (or more white vinegar, or regular balsamic)
• 1 Tbsp pesto
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 garlic clove, pressed
• 1 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, white wine vinegar, pesto, salt, garlic, and black pepper.
3. Add cooked pasta, butter beans, tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion to the bowl. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
4. For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
5. Top with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition Info (per serving):

~449 calories, 20 g fat (7 g saturated), 48 g carbs (9 g fiber, 0 g added sugar), 17 g protein

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Pasta Salad with Butter Beans

• Mostly no-cook and easy to throw together
• Rich in fiber, healthy fats, and protein
• Creamy butter beans make it extra satisfying
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Easy to customize with what you have on hand
• Delicious served cold straight from the fridge

FAQs

What are butter beans?

Butter beans are large lima beans with a soft, creamy texture and mild flavor. They’re perfect for pasta salads because they add satisfying texture and protein.

Can I make this Caprese Pasta Salad dairy-free?

Yes! Use vegan mozzarella, vegan feta, or marinated tofu instead of mozzarella balls.

Does this recipe work for meal prep?

Absolutely. This pasta salad actually tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

How long does it last?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I use regular balsamic vinegar?

Yes, though white balsamic keeps the flavors/color lighter and brighter. Regular balsamic will give it a richer flavor.

More Meal-Prep Friendly Dishes You’ll Love

• Cozy Vegetarian 3-Bean Chili (Kid-Approved & Freezer-Friendly)
• Lentil & Beef Kofta (High-Protein Sheet Pan Dinner)
• High-Protein Tofu Curry Noodle Soup (Meal Prep Friendly)
• Morning Glory Baked Oatmeal (High-Protein, Fiber-Packed Breakfast)

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