Easy Pasta Salad Recipe with Mozzarella Cheese
This easy pasta salad recipe with mozzarella cheese is the perfect summer dish! It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you can have it on the table in just minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of penne pasta
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup of cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of black olives, halved
- 1/2 cup of red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- While the pasta is cooking, combine the tomatoes, onion, cucumber, olives, bell pepper, and basil in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
FAQ
Q: What can use instead of mozzarella cheese?
You can use any type of cheese you like in this pasta salad. Some other options include feta cheese, goat cheese, or Parmesan cheese.
Q: What can use instead of fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil instead. Just be sure to use less dried basil than you would fresh basil, as it is more potent.
Q: Can make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this pasta salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to add the dressing just before serving, as the pasta salad will become soggy if it sits in the dressing for too long.
Q: What are some other ways to enjoy this pasta salad?
This pasta salad is delicious on its own, but you can also add some protein to it if you like. Some ideas include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also serve it with some crackers or bread for a more substantial meal.
Pros of this recipe
- It’s easy to make.
- It’s healthy and nutritious.
- It’s versatile and can be customized to your liking.
- It’s perfect for summer.
Tips for making this recipe
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don’t overcook the pasta.
- Add the dressing just before serving.
- Enjoy!
Summary
This easy pasta salad recipe with mozzarella cheese is the perfect summer dish! It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you can have it on the table in just minutes. So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try today!
easy pasta salad recipe with mozzarella cheese
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1/2 cup jarred marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound penne pasta
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped carrots
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, cut into thin strips
You can use any type of pasta that you like, but I recommend using a short pasta like penne or fusilli.
Add some fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, to the salad. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a little heat.
A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper is a great option. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for extra flavor.
Cucumber, celery, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and peppers are all good options.
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper