Description
This refreshing pasta salad features tender pasta tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and fresh basil, all tied together with a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal for warm days, potlucks, or light lunches.
Ingredients
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Pasta of your choice (8 oz dry, cooked)
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1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
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¼ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced (plus whole leaves for garnish)
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
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1 tbsp white-wine vinegar
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tsp honey
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain.
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In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
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Add cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls. Toss gently to combine.
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Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days or serve immediately.
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Stir in sliced basil just before serving. Garnish with whole basil leaves, if desired.
Notes
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Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
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Substitute white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or more lemon juice.
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Add lemon zest to the dressing for more citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-cook (except boiling pasta)
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired