Pasta Salad with Herbed Marinated Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your summer meals with this vibrant Pasta Salad with Herbed Marinated Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes. Bursting with Italian-inspired flavors, this recipe combines al dente pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella balls marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil and parsley. With optional baby spinach for added greens and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a savory finish, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Perfectly chilled or served at room temperature, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, this pasta salad is your go-to for a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 grams pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 250 grams mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 300 grams cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 grams baby spinach (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, chopped basil, chopped parsley, and dried oregano. Mix well to create the marinade.
Add the mozzarella balls to the marinade. Toss to coat, cover, and let sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and marinated mozzarella (including the marinade for extra flavor).
If using, add baby spinach to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta salad before serving for an extra savory touch.
Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving, or serve immediately at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
476 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.1 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.1 g | 55% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 39 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 819 mg | 36% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 33.8 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.8 g | ||
| Protein | 21.9 g | 44% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 420 mg | 32% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 581 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
