Description
A vibrant pasta salad infused with fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 18 oz pasta (preferably Barilla Penne)
- 9 oz mozzarella (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1/3 cup fresh basil (torn into pieces)
- 8 oz sun-dried tomatoes (chopped into 1/4-inch strips)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2.5 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 2.5 tsp olive oil (preferably Bertolli Extra Virgin)
- 2.5 tsp garlic (freshly minced)
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1.5 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar (reduced until syrupy)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Minced the garlic and set it aside.
- Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into 1/4-inch strips and cut the mozzarella into 1/2-inch cubes, keeping them separate.
- Tear the fresh basil into bite-sized pieces.
- Pour 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan and place it over low heat, allowing it to reduce for 15-20 minutes until syrupy.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta, stirring occasionally.
- Cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain thoroughly without rinsing.
- Whisk together 2.5 tsp balsamic vinegar, 2.5 tsp olive oil, minced garlic, salt, dried basil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Transfer the hot pasta to a large bowl and add the mozzarella, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Check that the balsamic reduction has thickened, then drizzle it over the salad and sprinkle with parmesan.
- Toss gently to incorporate the glaze and serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; allow time for chilling to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg