Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for a dish that’s breezy, colorful, and loaded with vibrance? Enter Pasta Salad—a summertime staple that effortlessly blends tender pasta, creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and an herby kiss of basil all tossed in a tangy, aromatic dressing. It’s easy enough for weekday lunches, lively enough for picnics, and just the kind of dish friends will ask you for the recipe after every get-together. Pasta Salad is not just satisfying, it’s pure joy in a bowl, bringing a lively mix of flavors and textures that you’ll want to revisit all year long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of what makes this Pasta Salad so craveable is its simplicity—each ingredient is a building block for taste, texture, or that pop of color. Together, they create a wonderfully harmonious bite every time.

• Small pasta (1 pound): Fusilli, orecchiette, or penne work especially well for catching all that dressing and ensuring every mouthful is flavorful.
• Mozzarella balls (16 ounces): Ciliegine or pearls transform this salad into a creamy, luxurious treat; halve them so their flavor mingles throughout.
• Cherry tomatoes (3 cups): Halved for bursts of juiciness and color in every bite—choose red, orange, or a mix for visual appeal.
• Fresh basil (1/2 cup, thinly sliced): Adds aromatic, peppery notes that set Pasta Salad apart from the ordinary.
• Extra virgin olive oil (1/3 cup): The base of your dressing, bringing a rich, fruity finish to the salad.
• White balsamic vinegar (3 tablespoons): For a mellow tanginess that won’t overpower and keeps the colors vibrant.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon, plus more for boiling): Crucial for enhancing each ingredient—don’t skip the salted pasta water!
• Freshly ground black pepper (1 teaspoon): Balances out the dressing with subtle heat and earthiness.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced or pressed): Brightens and deepens the flavors, making the whole dish sing.

How to Make Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of water and generously season it with kosher salt—think of it like seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Cook your chosen pasta shape until it’s perfectly al dente (usually just a minute less than the package suggests) for the ideal texture in your Pasta Salad. Once finished, drain the pasta and rinse quickly with cold water to stop the cooking so it stays pleasantly firm for the salad.

Step 2: Prep the Cheese & Tomatoes

While the pasta cooks, halve the creamy mozzarella balls. Then, slice the cherry tomatoes in half as well. Both steps only take a couple of minutes and make a huge difference—the more surface area, the bigger the flavor payoff. Toss both into a big mixing bowl so they’re ready to soak up all that herby goodness.

Step 3: Combine with Basil

Once your pasta has cooled to room temperature (warm pasta can melt the cheese, so patience is key!), add it to the bowl with the mozzarella and tomatoes. Gently toss in the slivered fresh basil. Everything should already look colorful and inviting!

Step 4: Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk or shake together the extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This simple dressing is what ties Pasta Salad together, giving each component a bright, zippy attitude.

Step 5: Toss and Marinate

Pour the dressing over the salad, then gently toss to coat every piece. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary—sometimes a pinch more salt or a grind of pepper makes it sing. For maximum flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes so everything mingles and the pasta can absorb the dressing. You can serve immediately, but the flavor gets even better as it sits.

How to Serve Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Add a flourish of freshly torn basil leaves on top or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a bit of sparkle and extra aroma. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a handful of toasted pine nuts adds lusciousness or crunch, making your Pasta Salad truly memorable.

Side Dishes

Pair this Pasta Salad with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp for a hearty meal, or serve it alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread for a lighter option. It’s the perfect all-rounder for potlucks, family dinners, and sunny picnic spreads.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party-ready presentation, pile your Pasta Salad into a large shallow bowl or platter, mounding it high for dramatic effect. Or scoop it into individual mason jars or lettuce cups for on-the-go lunches and fun, portable servings that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pasta Salad keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days, making it a dream for meal prep or a make-ahead potluck dish. Store it in an airtight container, and give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.

Freezing

This particular Pasta Salad is best enjoyed fresh and refrigerated, as the tomatoes and mozzarella don’t fare well in the freezer—they tend to lose their texture and become watery once thawed. For the best results, make a fresh batch when needed.

Reheating

Pasta Salad is traditionally served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If it’s been in the fridge, let it sit out for 10 to 15 minutes to take off the cold edge, then enjoy as is. If needed, refresh the salad with a splash of olive oil or vinegar to revive the taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?

Absolutely! White balsamic keeps things mellow and slightly sweet, but red wine or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch. Just be mindful that they might change the color and flavor profile a bit.

What other vegetables can I add to Pasta Salad?

Feel free to get creative—diced cucumber, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even some thinly sliced red onion all make great add-ins that play well with the classic base flavors.

Is this Pasta Salad gluten free?

You can easily make a gluten-free version by simply substituting your favorite gluten-free pasta. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten free.

How long can Pasta Salad sit out at a picnic or potluck?

It’s best kept chilled, but Pasta Salad can safely sit out for about two hours. If it’s especially hot out, try to keep it on ice or in a cooler to maintain freshness and food safety.

Can I make Pasta Salad a day ahead?

Yes! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a quick stir and adjust the seasoning before serving to brighten everything up.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fresh, fuss-free dish that showcases the best of summer ingredients, give this Pasta Salad a try. It’s packed with bold flavor, irresistible textures, and a touch of homemade flair. Gather your favorite people, share a big bowl, and watch it disappear—this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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