If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh, and delightfully simple dish that’s perfect for any get-together or a light lunch, the Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil, all tossed with a tangy balsamic dressing, this salad is a celebration of colors and flavors that come together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to whip up, visually stunning, and sure to be a crowd favorite every time you bring it to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients for this recipe together is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in balancing the flavors, textures, and brightness of the dish. Simple pantry staples meet fresh produce to make magic happen in your bowl.
- 2 cups cooked pasta: Use your favorite shape; penne or rotini work beautifully to hold the dressing.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, these add lovely bursts of flavor and vibrant red color.
- 1 cup mozzarella balls: Creamy and mild, they provide a luscious, satisfying contrast to the tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped: Aromatic and bright, basil ties all the flavors together fresh from the garden.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: A good quality olive oil adds richness and smoothness to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: This introduces a gentle sweetness and tang to brighten the salad.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
How to Make Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures a pleasant bite that won’t get mushy after mixing with the dressing and sitting in the fridge. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly—this sets the stage for your vibrant pasta salad.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
In a large bowl, bring together the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. This combination infuses every forkful with freshness, creaminess, and herbaceous notes that celebrate summer in each bite.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil and balsamic vinegar together with a pinch of salt and pepper. The dressing is simple but packs a flavorful punch, marrying the salad’s ingredients with a deliciously tangy and silky coating.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss everything together until the pasta, vegetables, and cheese are evenly coated. This step is where the salad truly comes alive, as the dressing harmonizes every ingredient beautifully.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
For best results, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly and gives the salad a refreshing coolness that is especially delightful on warm days or as part of a festive spread.
How to Serve Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a few extra basil leaves right before serving to amp up the presentation and flavor. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a pretty finishing touch and a pop of sweet richness.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a potluck, these sides complement the pasta salad’s fresh and tangy profile perfectly, rounding out the meal without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in colorful bowls or mason jars for an inviting look. You could also layer it with alternating ingredients in clear glass containers for a visually striking presentation—perfect for parties where first impressions count just as much as flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta salad will keep fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or lunches on the go.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled rather than frozen. Freezing can compromise the texture of the mozzarella and tomatoes, making them watery or mushy upon thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating is not necessary. Serve it straight from the fridge for the best flavor and texture. If you’d like it closer to room temperature, just let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or penne are excellent choices because they hold the dressing well, feel free to use any pasta you love or have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Fresh basil is key for that aromatic burst, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with fresh parsley or even a pinch of dried basil in a pinch. The flavor won’t be quite the same but still delicious!
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Replace the mozzarella balls with a plant-based cheese alternative or marinated tofu cubes. The vinaigrette dressing is already vegan-friendly, so it’s just a simple swap to make it suit your dietary preferences.
How long should I let the salad chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes is ideal. This resting period lets the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures the salad is refreshingly cool when served.
Is this pasta salad good for potlucks?
Definitely! The Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pasta Salad Recipe is a crowd-pleaser and travels well, making it a fantastic choice for potlucks, picnics, and casual gatherings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pasta Salad Recipe — it’s a perfect balance of fresh, creamy, and tangy that feels like a little celebration in a bowl. Whether you’re bringing it to a party or enjoying it as a refreshing meal at home, it’s bound to brighten your day and delight your taste buds. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Cherry Tomato, Mozzarella, and Basil Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Christmas potluck pasta salad combines cooked pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil, all tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, this no-cook dish is quick to prepare and bursting with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and allow to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh mozzarella balls for best texture and flavor.
- To save time, prepare pasta in advance and store in the refrigerator.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free if desired.
