Description
A light yet indulgent pasta salad featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups pasta (rotini or bowtie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, torn
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Halve cherry tomatoes and set aside.
- Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella, then pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Toss in torn basil leaves and mix gently.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
Notes
For added creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: pasta salad, summer salad, caprese salad, vegetarian, easy recipes