pasta salad with fresh mozzarella

A pasta salad is a classic side dish that can be tailored to suit any taste. When you combine fresh mozzarella, a tangy vinaigrette, and your favorite pasta, you will have an unforgettable dish that can be served hot or cold. This recipe for pasta salad with fresh mozzarella is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Ingredients

This recipe calls for the following ingredients:

1 pound of your favorite pasta
1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon of sugar
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup of diced red onion
1 cup of diced tomatoes
1/2 cup of sliced black olives
2 cups of fresh mozzarella, diced
1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

To prepare this delicious pasta salad, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the dressing over the cooked pasta and stir to coat.

Add the red onion, tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella to the pasta and stir to combine. Place the pasta salad in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour.

When ready to serve, transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh basil. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I cook the pasta?

Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Generally, it should take 8-10 minutes.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use your favorite type of cheese in this recipe. Feta, cheddar, and provolone are all good options.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad can be prepared up to 1 day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of short pasta for this recipe. Penne, farfalle, rotini, and macaroni are all good choices.

Can I add other vegetables to this pasta salad?

Yes, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes. Just make sure to dice them into small pieces before adding them to the salad.