Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Dive into our delightful Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Olives! This Italian-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor in every bite. With its colorful ingredients and zesty dressing, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 25 minutes! Ready to elevate your culinary game? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Fresh mozzarella
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Olives
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Choose a pasta shape like rotini or penne that will hold the dressing and ingredients well.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, drain and chop sun-dried tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. If they are packed in oil, pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess oiliness.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down. Shake off excess water thoroughly.
- Cut fresh mozzarella into small cubes, approximately 1/2 inch in size. If using larger mozzarella balls, ensure even, consistent cutting.
- Slice olives (preferably Kalamata or mixed Mediterranean varieties) into thin rounds or halves, depending on preference.
- Chop fresh basil leaves into thin ribbons using a sharp knife, creating a chiffonade technique.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, mozzarella cubes, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives.
- Create a dressing by whisking together extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure even coating of all ingredients.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the salad and gently mix to distribute herbs evenly.
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. For best results, let it sit for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like rotini or penne that can hold the dressing and mix well with the other ingredients. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
- Perfectly Al Dente: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, but keep an eye on it to achieve the perfect al dente texture—firm to the bite but not mushy.
- Chill for Flavor: After mixing all the ingredients, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color. You can also substitute the olives with your favorite variety.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning or dressing to your preference. A little extra balsamic vinegar can add a delightful tang!
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, add a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle with additional fresh basil leaves to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 590kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 50mg
