Ingredients
12 oz (340g) fusilli, rotini, or orecchiette pasta
1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
8 oz (226g) fresh mozzarella pearls (ciliegine or bocconcini), drained
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped or torn
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of generously salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well and rinse immediately under cold water to cool. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cools, prepare the fresh ingredients. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the fresh mozzarella pearls. Roughly chop or tear the fresh basil leaves.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Pour the prepared balsamic dressing over the ingredients. Gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Fold in the fresh basil leaves. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it another gentle toss. Drizzle with optional balsamic glaze if desired.
Notes
For best flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella pearls, you can buy a larger ball and cut it into small cubes. This salad is best served chilled and can be made a few hours in advance, adding the basil just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dishes
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
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