Tomato Basil and Mozzarella Pasta Salad
Bursting with vibrant flavors and Mediterranean charm, this Tomato Basil and Mozzarella Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe for a quick and refreshing meal or side dish. Featuring tender penne pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves, it’s dressed in a zesty blend of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic for a tangy finish. Ready in just 25 minutes, this easy pasta salad strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Ideal for outdoor picnics, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner, it can be served fresh or chilled. Sprinkle with optional Parmesan for an extra layer of indulgence, and watch it become a crowd favorite!
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Ingredients
- 350 grams Penne pasta
- 250 grams Cherry tomatoes
- 200 grams Fresh mozzarella balls
- 20 grams Fresh basil leaves
- 60 milliliters Extra virgin olive oil
- 30 milliliters Balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 20 grams Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
Step 2
While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.
Step 3
Drain the fresh mozzarella balls and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. If the mozzarella balls are large, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4
Wash the fresh basil leaves and pat them dry with a clean towel. Set aside a few whole leaves for garnish and chop the rest into thin ribbons.
Step 5
Prepare the dressing by combining the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl or jar. Whisk or shake until emulsified.
Step 6
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and chopped basil.
Step 7
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Step 8
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Step 9
Transfer the pasta salad to a serving dish, garnish with whole basil leaves and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Step 10
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled version.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (940.6g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2508.2 |
| Total Fat 111.4g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 40.3g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 169.1mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3944.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 281.4g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 16.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 18.3g | |
| Protein 97.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 1327.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 16.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1622.1mg | 0% |
Source of Calories