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Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad

Fresh, vibrant, and perfect for school lunches or summer gatherings! ???????????? Rotini or penne pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing makes this pasta salad a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad
  • 1 lb rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar balances acidity
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. ????
  2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella, basil, and parsley. ????????
  3. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Pour over pasta and veggies. ????
  4. Toss gently to combine. Add optional black olives, pine nuts, and cucumber if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. ❄️
  5. Serve cold or at room temperature. Perfect for school lunches, picnics, or potlucks! ????️

Notes

Save this fresh Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad to your Pinterest board for quick and healthy lunch ideas! ????????