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Basil Pasta Salad

Basil Pasta Salad Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz short pasta, such as rotini or fusilli
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls (ciliegine)
  • 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, roughly torn, plus extra for garnish
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced very finely
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
  2. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and sugar until emulsified.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and torn basil. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
  4. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with extra basil and black pepper, and serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

If making ahead, reserve a few basil leaves to add just before serving so they stay bright green. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; let it come to room temperature before eating.