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Tomato Basil Pasta Salad

Tomato Basil Pasta Salad Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb dried short pasta (rotini, farfalle, or penne)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated or minced
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more for the pasta water
  • freshly ground black pepper

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water until cool, and shake off excess water well.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the tomatoes, basil, red onion (if using), and dressing. Let sit 5 minutes, then serve with a few more torn basil leaves on top.

Notes

Getting the pasta fully cool before dressing makes the biggest difference. If you have time, spread it on a sheet pan for 10 minutes after rinsing. For the best flavor, let the dressed salad rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before you serve it.