why make this recipe
Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines a variety of flavors and textures. It’s a delightful meal perfect for warm days, potlucks, or gatherings. This salad is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it suitable for busy weekdays. The sun-dried tomatoes bring a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh basil and cheese. Plus, it’s a colorful addition to your meal that can stand alone or be a side dish.
how to make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 16 oz. short pasta (rigatoni, rotini, bow tie, etc.)
- 3 oz. baby spinach
- 10 oz. cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil with Italian herbs (8.5 oz, oil drained)
- ½ red onion (small diced)
- ½ cup shredded parmesan (shaved or grated will work)
- 8 oz. mozzarella pearls
- â…“ cup chopped basil (packed)
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil (or enough to make â…” cup with oil from tomatoes)
- â…“ cup oil drained from sun-dried tomatoes
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (regular or white)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp salt (more or less to taste)
Directions
- Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions.
- When the pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it with the spinach to wilt.
- Rinse the pasta with cool water to help cool it off quickly, or let it cool for 15-20 minutes.
- Toss the pasta and spinach with chopped basil, onion, sun-dried tomatoes (julienned), cherry tomatoes, parmesan, and mozzarella (if the pasta is still hot, wait to add the mozzarella until it cools off).
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients and toss ¾ of it with the pasta salad, reserving ¼ of the dressing for later.
- Chill for about 30 minutes and then toss the remaining dressing before serving.
how to serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. You can enjoy it as a main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats or other salads. For extra flair, consider garnishing with more fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
how to store Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. The flavors may even develop more as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep.
tips to make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
- Use your favorite short pasta for different textures.
- Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers, olives, or artichokes for additional flavors.
- Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference; taste as you go.
variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Additionally, for a vegan version, leave out the cheese and use a plant-based dressing.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute fresh tomatoes, but the flavor will be different. Sun-dried tomatoes provide a concentrated flavor that fresh tomatoes may not replicate.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta. Be sure to check other ingredients for gluten content if you have severe allergies.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is great for making ahead. It can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just remember to toss it with the remaining dressing before serving to refresh its flavor.
