There’s something magical about a Pasta Salad with Olive Oil & Cherry Tomatoes that can instantly transport you to an Italian summer, complete with sun-drenched vineyards and the scent of basil wafting through the air. Picture this: luscious cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor, dressed in golden olive oil, mingling with al dente pasta that’s just waiting to soak up every drop of deliciousness. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a joyous celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony.
Now, if you think enjoying this vibrant dish is reserved for warm-weather picnics or fancy dinner parties, think again! This Pasta Salad is your trusty sidekick for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch while binge-watching your favorite series or a potluck where the competition is fierce. Trust me; once you serve this colorful creation, your friends will shower you with compliments and possibly even ask for your secret recipe (which we both know isn’t really a secret at all).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Pasta Salad with Olive Oil & Cherry Tomatoes is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner
- The bright flavors are sure to impress everyone at the table
- With its vibrant colors, it’s not only tasty but also visually appealing
- Versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a delightful side, it’s perfect for any occasion
My best friend once exclaimed that this Pasta Salad was “life-changing” after I made it for our movie night. It became her go-to recipe for impressing her family!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Pasta: Use your favorite type—penne or fusilli works great! Al dente is key for texture.
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Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for ripe and juicy tomatoes; they add sweetness and color.
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Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Always choose high-quality oil; it elevates the entire dish’s flavor.
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Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings aromatic freshness; don’t skimp on these fragrant leaves.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your personal taste.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated on top, it adds richness and enhances flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in your pasta and cooking until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Prepare Cherry Tomatoes: While pasta cooks, slice cherry tomatoes in half. Their sweet juices will mix wonderfully with olive oil later.
Create the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil with salt and pepper. This simple dressing ties all the flavors together without overwhelming them.
Toss Ingredients Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, and torn basil leaves. Pour in the dressing and gently toss until everything is well-coated.
Add Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the salad generously. Toss again lightly so each bite has cheesy goodness.
Serve and Enjoy!: Transfer your beautiful Pasta Salad into a serving bowl. Garnish with more basil if desired and enjoy immediately or let it chill for enhanced flavors!
This Pasta Salad with Olive Oil & Cherry Tomatoes will soon become a staple in your kitchen repertoire because who doesn’t love a delicious dish that comes together in no time? Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it at gatherings, each bite promises to delight your taste buds!
You Must Know
- This delightful pasta salad with olive oil and cherry tomatoes bursts with flavor and freshness
- The vibrant colors and textures create a visually appealing dish, perfect for potlucks or a light lunch
- Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even on the busiest days
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then toss in the olive oil while it cools. This ensures the pasta absorbs the flavors perfectly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes or add feta cheese for a tangy twist. Customize according to your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It tastes better chilled, so no reheating necessary!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt
- Ensure you rinse cooked pasta under cold water to prevent sticking
- Always season with salt during cooking for maximum flavor infusion
Creating this pasta salad with olive oil and cherry tomatoes reminds me of summer barbecues where laughter filled the air and compliments flowed freely.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta like penne or fusilli works great in this salad.
What can I add for extra protein?
Grilled chicken or chickpeas are excellent options to boost protein content.
How long does leftover pasta salad last?
The salad can last up to three days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Pasta Salad with Olive Oil & Cherry Tomatoes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Pasta Salad with Olive Oil & Cherry Tomatoes is a refreshing, vibrant dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian summers. Bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, al dente pasta, and fragrant basil, this salad is drizzled with high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a delightful flavor explosion. Perfect as a light lunch or an impressive side at gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and sure to earn you rave reviews from friends and family.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While the pasta cooks, slice cherry tomatoes in half.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, and torn basil leaves. Pour in the dressing and toss gently.
- Grate Parmesan over the salad and toss lightly again.
- Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
