Looking for a quick, refreshing, and mouthwatering dish that screams Italian cuisine? Our Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Salad is about to become your new obsession! Imagine perfectly cooked pasta tossed with juicy ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant fresh basil, all brought together with a tangy balsamic dressing. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that transports you straight to the sun-drenched hills of Italy in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
- 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. This will be used to cook the pasta.
- Once the water is boiling, add the 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fusilli) to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the 3 ripe tomatoes into small pieces and set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, halve the 1 cup of mozzarella balls and add them to the bowl with the diced tomatoes.
- Chop the 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves finely and add them to the mixing bowl, along with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This will also help to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- After rinsing, add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve the Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious Italian dish!
Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously - this is your first chance to add flavor to the dish.
- Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping, ensuring a perfect texture.
- Use ripe, high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor - if possible, choose vine-ripened or heirloom varieties.
- Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some fresh garlic or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- This salad tastes even better the next day, so don't be afraid to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
