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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
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This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to family dinners. With its delightful combination of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a zesty dressing, this pasta salad is not only easy to prepare but also quick to make—ready in under 30 minutes! The reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes enhances the dressing, making each bite truly irresistible. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on health. Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with grilled proteins, this salad is versatile and will impress friends and family alike.

Ingredients

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  • 16 oz short pasta (rigatoni, rotini, bow tie, etc.)
  • 3 oz baby spinach
  • 10 oz cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 8.5 oz sun-dried tomatoes in oil (oil drained)
  • 1/2 red onion (small diced)
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan (shaved or grated will work)
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls
  • 1/3 cup chopped basil (packed)
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup oil drained from sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (more or less to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the short pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss with baby spinach until wilted slightly. Cool the pasta for about 15–20 minutes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped basil, diced red onion, julienned sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded parmesan, and mozzarella pearls.
  3. For the dressing, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, drained oil from sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt until well combined.
  4. Toss three-fourths of the dressing with the pasta salad mixture; reserve one-fourth for later serving.
  5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://madebykiara.com/sun-dried-tomato-pasta-salad/