Description
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad featuring cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tangy blue cheese, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.
- Prep the ingredients: While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the mozzarella, and chop the basil.
- Combine pasta and ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust to taste, adding fresh minced garlic if desired.
- Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing gently to coat. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese on top and mix evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and enjoy: Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil and any additional cheese or nuts you love.
Notes
For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or shrimp. This dish is versatile; feel free to experiment with seasonal ingredients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: pasta salad, summer dish, barbecue recipe, colorful salad, quick meal
