Bright, fresh, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Penne Pasta Salad with Roasted Red Peppers and Fresh Basil is a must-try for gatherings or easy weeknight meals. Featuring tender penne pasta tossed with sweet roasted red peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this dish is elevated with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It's a quick and satisfying recipe, coming together in just 30 minutes, and ideal for serving chilled or at room temperature. Perfect as a light main course or a vibrant side dish, this Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad is a delightful blend of zesty, herbaceous, and umami flavors that will impress everyone at the table.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Meanwhile, slice the roasted red peppers into thin strips and halve the cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice the fresh basil leaves.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the vinaigrette.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled penne, roasted red peppers, cherry tomatoes, sliced basil, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or black pepper if needed.
Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Calories |
1782 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 62.2 g | 80% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.5 g | 78% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 44 mg | 15% | |
| Sodium | 1523 mg | 66% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 244.4 g | 89% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.1 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.1 g | ||
| Protein | 58.4 g | 117% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 556 mg | 43% | |
| Iron | 13.9 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 1606 mg | 34% | |
*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.