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Pasta Salad with Basil and Tomatoes

Vibrant Pasta Salad with Basil and Tomatoes for Summer Bliss

This Pasta Salad with Basil and Tomatoes is a delightful, vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 18 oz Pasta Use short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for best results.
  • 9 oz Mozzarella Cut into 1/2-inch cubes for even distribution.
  • 1/3 cup Fresh Basil Tear into pieces rather than chopping to preserve flavor.
  • 8 oz Sun-dried Tomatoes Chop into 1/4-inch strips; don’t discard jar oil.
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste if you prefer less spice.
For the Dressing
  • 2.5 tsp Balsamic Vinegar Use high-quality vinegar for best results.
  • 3/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar For glaze.
  • 2.5 tsp Olive Oil Bertolli Extra Virgin recommended.
  • 2.5 tsp Garlic Use freshly minced for optimal taste.
  • 3/4 tsp Salt Adjust based on personal preference.
  • 1.5 tsp Dried Basil Reinforces the basil flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adds warmth and complexity.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Sprinkle on top before serving.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • small saucepan
  • Colander
  • serving bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by preparing your ingredients by mincing garlic, chopping sun-dried tomatoes, cutting mozzarella, and tearing fresh basil.
  2. In a small saucepan, bring 3/4 cup of balsamic vinegar to a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened to a glaze.
  3. Fill a large pot with water, adding salt, and boil. Cook 18 ounces of pasta until al dente, then drain without rinsing.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2.5 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, dried basil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
  5. In a large serving bowl, combine warm pasta, mozzarella, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes, then toss with dressing.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Remove from refrigerator, toss gently, drizzle with balsamic glaze, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 430mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 8mg

Notes

This pasta salad is best enjoyed chilled, and its flavors improve when made a day in advance. Adjust seasoning after chilling if necessary.

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