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Tomato & Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Tomato & Mozzarella Pasta Salad recipe image
This vibrant pasta salad features sweet, roasted plum tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese tossed with bow-tie pasta. The dish is brought together with a zesty dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh garlic. Roasting the tomatoes concentrates their flavor and adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender pasta. It is a perfect warm-weather meal or side dish, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that tastes fresh and satisfying every time.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Calories: 221.8
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant pasta salad features sweet, roasted plum tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese tossed with bow-tie pasta. The dish is brought together with a zesty dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh garlic. Roasting the tomatoes concentrates their flavor and adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender pasta. It is a perfect warm-weather meal or side dish, ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner. The combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser that tastes fresh and satisfying every time.
Ingredients
  • 5 cups Bow tie pasta
  • 15 medium Fresh plum tomatoes, cored and cut lengthwise into thirds
  • 225 grams Mozzarella cheese, torn or cubed
  • 1/2 cup Olive oil
  • 1/3 cup Balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 large Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
Directions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 425&# 194;°F (220ðC).
  2. 2
    In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. 3
    Pour the dressing into a 15x10 inch shallow baking pan.
  4. 4
    Arrange the cut tomato pieces in a single layer on the pan, turning them to coat thoroughly with the dressing.
  5. 5
    Roast tomatoes for 45 minutes, or until edges are browned and softened. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
  6. 6
    Meanwhile, cook bow tie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente.
  7. 7
    Drain pasta and rinse immediately under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
  8. 8
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, and the remaining dressing from the baking pan.
  9. 9
    Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  10. 10
    Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 221.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20.3g32%
Saturated Fat 2.9g15%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 36.7mg2%
Total Carbohydrate 9.0g3%
Dietary Fiber 0.7g3%
Sugars 2.6g
Protein 1.9g4%

* 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

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely over time.

Variations: For a vegan version, use plant-based mozzarella or omit the cheese entirely. You can also add other vegetables like cucumber or red onion for extra crunch.

Tip: If you prefer a milder balsamic flavor, reduce the amount of vinegar and add a little more olive oil. Fresh basil is essential for the authentic Italian flavor profile.

Keywords: pasta salad, tomato, mozzarella, italian, bow tie, roasted, balsamic, summer, picnic, side dish, vegetarian, easy, fresh, basil, garlic, dressing, potluck, meal prep, light, healthy, comfort food
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/tomato-mozzarella-pasta-salad/