Quick and Easy Tomato Basil Pasta Salad Recipe

Tomato Basil Pasta Salad is a delightful summer dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the warmth of basil in a simple pasta salad. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnic baskets, or as a light meal served on its own.

This dish requires minimal preparation time but offers big flavors. You can make it ahead and keep it refrigerated until serving time, making it ideal for last-minute get-togethers. The cooking time for the pasta is around 10 minutes, while the assembly of the salad takes about 25 minutes. This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of fusilli or any small pasta shape (about 3/4 cup dry)
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Instructions

Start by boiling the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta and allow it to cool slightly on a plate.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well.
2. Pour in red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar, salt, olive oil, and dried oregano (if using). Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like it a bit more tangy, add another tablespoon of vinegar; if you prefer something sweeter, add a pinch more sugar or honey.
4. Once everything is well combined, let your pasta salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together properly.
5. Before serving, garnish with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional).

Tips and Variations

• For extra crunch: Add a handful of halved cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for additional freshness.
• To make it heartier: Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or your favorite protein to turn this into a main dish salad.
• Variety in vinegar: Try substituting red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or even rice vinegar for different flavor profiles.

Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts

This pasta salad is not only tasty but also packed with health benefits. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Basil contains compounds like flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory properties. Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats essential for heart health.

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p>Nutritional values per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 48g
• Dietary Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 8g

Presentation Ideas

To make your pasta salad look even more appealing, serve it on a colorful platter with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Alternatively, you could arrange the salad in individual bowls for each person, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers from this pasta salad, they can be stored in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply place the salad back into a bowl, drizzle with extra olive oil if necessary, cover it tightly, and microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes.

The tomato basil pasta salad is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings together flavors from various parts of Italy. Whether you’re looking to whip up something quick during the week or plan ahead for your next event, this recipe will surely impress with its simplicity and versatility.