Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
• 8 ounces fresh Mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain well. Transfer the pasta to a large salad bowl.
2. Add the cubed Mozzarella, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and chopped basil to the bowl. Gently toss to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss again. Serve chilled.

Verdict:

This Mozzarella pasta salad is a delicious and refreshing summer dish that can be served as a main dish or as a side dish. The combination of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, olives and fresh basil creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The balsamic vinegar dressing adds a tangy and sweet flavor to the salad. It’s easy to make and perfect for a picnic or a potluck party.

Serving suggestions:

Serve this pasta salad chilled, and as a side dish for grilled chicken, steak or fish. It’s perfect for a summer BBQ or a picnic. You can also add some roasted vegetables like zucchini, red peppers or eggplant to make it even more diverse. Enjoy!