Imagine a mouthwatering pasta salad that transports you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy with every single bite! This Balsamic Dressing Pasta Salad is not just another side dish – it's a flavor explosion that combines the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, creamy mozzarella, and fresh herbs into a culinary masterpiece that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a quick and delicious weeknight meal, this dish proves that gourmet doesn't have to mean complicated.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the black olives, and chop the fresh basil leaves.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced black olives, and chopped basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the balsamic dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a final gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips
- Choose the right pasta: Use short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini or penne that can hold the dressing well and are easy to eat.
- Salt your pasta water generously: This is your only chance to season the pasta from the inside out.
- Cool your pasta completely: Rinsing with cold water stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
- Let it marinate: Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend and intensify.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality balsamic vinegar can elevate this dish from good to extraordinary.
- Serve chilled: This pasta salad tastes best when it's cold, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for parties and potlucks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
