Tomato Basil Pasta Salad is a fresh, easy side made with penne pasta, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil and fresh mozzarella, all tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a great choice for a simple weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing summer side at a potluck.
There are countless pasta salads, but this one stands out for its simplicity and bright flavor. With just a few quality ingredients you’ll have a colorful, satisfying salad ready in minutes. The balsamic dressing is straightforward to make and versatile enough to use on greens if you have any left over.
Tomato Basil Pasta Salad Ingredients
For the salad:
- Penne pasta
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- Mozzarella pearls (or small mozzarella balls)
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Balsamic Salad Dressing
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Garlic, minced
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions to make Pasta Salad
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the noodles.
2. While the pasta cooks, halve the tomatoes and chop the basil. To slice basil quickly, stack the leaves, roll them tightly and slice into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tomatoes, chopped basil and mozzarella pearls. Toss gently to mix.
4. For the balsamic dressing, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt and pepper. Alternatively, put the ingredients in a jar with a lid and shake vigorously for 2–3 minutes until the mixture emulsifies and slightly thickens.
5. Pour about half the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Add more dressing a little at a time until the salad is evenly dressed and to your taste.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. The salad keeps well chilled and flavors meld nicely if made a few hours ahead.
What to Serve with Tomato Basil Pasta Salad
This pasta salad pairs well with simply prepared proteins. Try it with roasted or grilled meats like cast iron chicken breasts, flank steak, or salmon. It also stands on its own as a light vegetarian main when served with crusty bread.
Tomato Basil Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 16 oz penne pasta
- 18 oz grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 3 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Balsamic Dressing Ingredients
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 tsp garlic, minced
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package directions. While pasta cooks, prepare the tomatoes and basil.
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Drain and rinse pasta under cold water to cool. Toss pasta with tomatoes, basil and mozzarella.
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Combine dressing ingredients and whisk, or shake in a jar for 2–3 minutes until emulsified.
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Pour half the dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Add more dressing as needed.
Notes
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 38 g
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Protein: 7 g
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Fat: 15 g
Watch a live demonstration of this recipe on KSL Studio 5.
Perfect for your next potluck, this Tomato Basil Pasta Salad brings bright summer flavors together in an easy, make-ahead dish that everyone will enjoy.
What to serve with Tomato Basil Salad?
- Cast Iron Tri Tip
- Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Kebabs
- Soy Ginger Flank Steak