Description
A vibrant and tasty blend of fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, creamy mozzarella, and tangy balsamic vinaigrette, perfect for summer barbecues or potlucks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (bow tie or penne)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, and garlic.
- Whisk balsamic vinegar and olive oil together until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the vinaigrette with the tomato mixture and let sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Mix the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture and gently fold in mozzarella and Parmesan.
- If using, sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, allow the salad to sit after combining the ingredients. Fresh cheeses and ingredients enhance the overall taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg