Pasta Salad With Rocket & Tomato Dressing

This refreshing pasta salad combines tender al dente penne with a burst of fresh flavors. The dressing is built from ripe, juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and peppery rocket leaves, all brought together with a drizzle of quality olive oil. It is a light yet satisfying dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthy notes of the greens. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnic lunches, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a healthy vegan and vegetarian option that is both easy to prepare and delicious to eat. The contrasting textures of the warm pasta and cool dressing create a memorable dining experience.

Cooking Method: Boiling

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Salads

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Calories: 93.0

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This refreshing pasta salad combines tender al dente penne with a burst of fresh flavors. The dressing is built from ripe, juicy tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and peppery rocket leaves, all brought together with a drizzle of quality olive oil. It is a light yet satisfying dish that highlights the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthy notes of the greens. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnic lunches, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a healthy vegan and vegetarian option that is both easy to prepare and delicious to eat. The contrasting textures of the warm pasta and cool dressing create a memorable dining experience.

Ingredients

4 Ripe Tomatoes, peeled,
2 De-seeded and chopped
2 Garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 oz rocket leaves, coarsely chopped
1 tbsp Olive oil
8 oz penne pasta (quills)
1 to taste Salt and freshly ground Black pepper

Directions

1
Combine the peeled tomatoes, finely chopped garlic, and coarsely chopped rocket leaves in a large bowl.
2
Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
5
Add the penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
6
Drain the pasta and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
7
Drain the pasta well to remove excess water.
8
Toss the chilled pasta with the tomato and rocket mixture.
9
Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 93.0kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9.2g15%
Saturated Fat 5.5g28%
Cholesterol 23.5mg8%
Sodium 15.5mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 5.3g2%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g5%
Sugars 4.0g
Protein 1.6g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a warmer version, toss the hot, drained pasta directly into the chilled tomato sauce just before serving.

Plum tomatoes are an excellent substitute for ripe tomatoes and add a nice texture to this recipe.

Preparation and freezing are not recommended for this dish as the fresh ingredients may lose their quality.

Keywords: pasta salad, rocket, arugula, tomato dressing, vegan, vegetarian, italian, penne, summer salad, picnic food, healthy, garlic, olive oil, fresh tomatoes, quick dinner, light meal

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/pasta-salad-with-rocket-tomato-dressing/