Perfectly Balanced Tomato Basil Pasta Salad

This delectable Tomato Basil Pasta Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that combines the best of fresh summer tomatoes with aromatic basil leaves for an Italian-inspired twist on traditional pasta salad.

Tomato Basil Pasta Salad makes for a vibrant and colorful meal, suitable for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch. The recipe can be prepared in about 30 minutes, yielding approximately four servings of this delightful dish.

Ingredients

1 pound elbow pasta
4 ripe tomatoes, chopped into small cubes
1 cup fresh basil leaves, finely sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese for added flavor

Preparation Steps

To start, bring a large pot of water to boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain well and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar. This mixture will enhance the flavors in your salad.
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta along with the tomatoes, basil leaves, red onions, and any optional feta cheese. Toss everything gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad, ensuring that each piece of pasta is well coated. Stir thoroughly so that every element is drenched in the tasty sauce.

The flavors are bold and satisfying, making this dish a perfect choice for those who enjoy robust Italian-inspired recipes. The combination of sweet tomatoes, pungent garlic, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious blend of savory and refreshing notes that truly defines a balanced meal.

Tips and Variations

For a more exciting twist, consider adding some grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad for protein. This will not only increase its nutritional value but also give it an extra layer of flavor. Another variation could involve replacing the elbow pasta with rotini or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Feel free to adjust the amount of dressing based on individual tastes, using more or less according to your preference.
If you're looking to reduce calories slightly, consider using light olive oil and low-fat yogurt instead of full-fat cheese and cream-based dressings.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: approximately 350 kcal
Fat: around 16 grams
Carbohydrates: about 48 grams
Fiber: roughly 7 grams
Protein: approximately 12 grams

Conclusion

The tomato basil pasta salad is a versatile and delightful dish that can be enjoyed by almost everyone. With its vibrant colors and flavors, it’s sure to please both adults and children alike. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or looking for an easy meal at home, this recipe provides an excellent balance of taste and health benefits.

Experiment with different vegetables or proteins depending on your dietary preferences and seasonality. This versatile pasta salad will become a regular in your repertoire thanks to its simplicity and delicious results.

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