Summer Pasta Recipe: Chilled Tomato & Basil Pasta Salad

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As the summer sun shines bright, it’s time to savor the refreshing flavors of the season. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer is a chilled tomato and basil pasta salad.

Packed with vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors, this summer pasta salad recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a delightful dinner option.

Join us as we explore the steps to create this mouthwatering dish, perfectly suited for warm summer evenings.

Ingredients:

8 ounces of your favorite pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This tangy dressing will infuse the salad with a burst of flavor.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, red onion, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Drizzle the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture. With a large spoon or salad tongs, carefully toss the salad until all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. The dressing will add a delightful tang and enhance the overall flavors of the dish.
Chill and let the flavors meld: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and result in a more delicious and refreshing salad.
Serve and enjoy: After chilling, give the pasta salad a final toss before serving. The chilled tomato and basil pasta salad is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve it as a side dish or a light main course, garnished with a few fresh basil leaves for an added touch of elegance.

Conclusion:

This summer pasta salad recipe offers a delightful combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a tangy dressing that will keep you cool and satisfied on hot summer days. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or seeking a light and refreshing dinner option, this chilled tomato and basil pasta salad is sure to become a favorite.

So, grab your ingredients, embrace the flavors of summer, and enjoy the vibrant and refreshing goodness of this sensational dish.

Happy summer eating!