Hey y’all! Today, we’re diving into a fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings and casual dinners alike: Penne, Tomato, and Mozzarella Salad. This is a vibrant recipe that brings together the goodness of pasta with the freshness of tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella. Let’s dive in and whip this up!
Penne, Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
This salad is not just a side; it can stand on its own as a light meal. Perfect for those hot summer days or any time you want something refreshing. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure not to overcook it!
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare your other ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and chopped fresh basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. This will be your dressing to bring everything together.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps to keep your salad nice and cool.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until combined.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it up fresh and enjoy every bite!
This Penne, Tomato, and Mozzarella Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. You can also make it ahead of time for a quick lunch or dinner option. So grab your ingredients, get in the kitchen, and let’s create something amazing together!