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Refreshing Cold Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Creamy Mozzarella
25min
Total Time
6 people
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost
300 kcal
Calories
Beat the heat with this vibrant and delicious cold pasta salad, perfect for summer gatherings!
Ingredients
6
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, cherry tomatoes, basil, and parsley.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine thoroughly.
5
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
6
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Kitchen Tools
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Serving spoon
Pro Tips
Use whole grain pasta for added nutrition.
Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
Troubleshooting
If the pasta sticks, make sure to rinse with cold water thoroughly after cooking.
If it's too dry, drizzle with more olive oil or lemon juice.
Recipe Variations
Add grilled vegetables for a smoky flavor.
Incorporate cubed avocado for creaminess.
Healthy Alternatives
Swap out mozzarella for vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a side dish at barbecues or picnics.
Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad.
Nutrition Facts
300
Calories
12g
Protein
38g
Carbs
14g
Fat
3g
Fiber
2g
Sugar
250mg
Sodium
20mg
Cholesterol
Dietary Info
Vegetarian
Lactose-free
Garnish Ideas
Top with extra basil or grated Parmesan just before serving.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Add a splash of olive oil before serving if it seems dry.
Leftover Ideas
Use leftover salad in a wrap or a bed of greens.
Mix in scrambled eggs for a breakfast option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
Not allowing the salad to chill adequately can affect flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it's best to make it a few hours in advance to enhance the flavors.
What type of pasta is best for cold pasta salad?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini work best as they hold the dressing well.
Is this pasta salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It's a great option for meal prep and keeps well in the fridge.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but sun-dried tomatoes add a unique depth of flavor.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply substitute the pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
Reviews
Emily
Mar 25, 2026
This pasta salad was a hit at my barbecue! So tasty!
David
Apr 5, 2026
Great recipe, but I added a bit more garlic for flavor.
Sophia
Mar 27, 2026
It was good, but I expected more flavor.
Michael
Mar 20, 2026
Absolutely delicious and so refreshing!
Jessica
Mar 28, 2026
Loved the combination of flavors and textures.
James
Mar 23, 2026
Perfect for summer days! Will make again!
Amanda
Mar 30, 2026
Best pasta salad I've ever made. So simple and flavorful.
Daniel
Mar 16, 2026
Easy to make and perfect for lunch!
Ashley
Mar 25, 2026
Decent recipe but could use more seasoning.
Brian
Apr 12, 2026
This has become a regular in my meal rotation!
Ava
Mar 23, 2026
Really enjoyed it! Will try with more veggies next time.
Ryan
Apr 8, 2026
I replaced mozzarella with feta, and it was amazing!
Olivia
Apr 14, 2026
So fresh and tasty! Ideal for picnics.
John
Apr 7, 2026
Good base recipe, enjoyed putting my spin on it.
Mia
Mar 25, 2026
This salad was the perfect side for our family dinner!
Zoe
Apr 1, 2026
It was okay, nothing too special, but still good.
