Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

If you’re looking for a pasta salad that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a favorite of mine because it’s packed with flavor and can be ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or bringing a dish to a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. The oil from the sun-dried tomatoes adds a rich depth of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

What makes this salad even better is the vibrant mix of ingredients. We’ve got fresh spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls—all coming together to create a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes to cook and another 15-20 cooling time, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
• Fresh and vibrant flavors: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil creates an explosion of taste that will brighten any meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the colorful ingredients, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Versatile side dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or serve it solo as a light lunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is simple and straightforward. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that looks as good as it tastes! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad

• 16 oz. short pasta (rigatoni, rotini, bow tie, etc.)
• 3 oz. baby spinach
• 10 oz. cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil with Italian herbs, 8.5 oz (oil drained)
• 1/2 red onion (small diced)
• ½ cup shredded parmesan (shaved or grated will work)
• 8 oz. mozzarella pearls
• 1/3 c. chopped basil (packed)

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (or enough to make 2/3 cup with oil from tomatoes)
• ⅓ cup oil drained from sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 T. balsamic vinegar (regular or white)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp. Pepper
• ½ tsp. Salt (more or less to taste)

Variations

The beauty of this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad lies in its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Add some protein: Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein.
• Mix up the greens: Instead of spinach, try arugula or kale for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the cheese: Use feta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for a tangy twist.
• Incorporate more veggies: Bell peppers, olives, or artichokes would add delightful flavors and textures.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta al dente according to the package instructions. This is important because overcooked pasta can become mushy in salads. Once it’s cooked, drain it and toss it with baby spinach while it’s still warm. The heat from the pasta will wilt the spinach beautifully!

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your cooled pasta mixture with chopped basil, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes (julienned), cherry tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella pearls. If your pasta is still warm, wait on adding the mozzarella until everything cools down so it keeps its shape.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined. Drizzle about three-quarters of this flavorful dressing over your pasta salad and give everything a gentle toss. Save the rest for later if you’re not serving immediately; it ensures everything stays fresh!

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Let your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes—it helps meld those wonderful flavors together! Just before serving, toss in any remaining dressing for an extra punch.

And there you have it—a delightful Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

Creating a delicious Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your salad turns out perfect every time.

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like rotini or bow tie, as their curves and crevices hold onto the dressing and ingredients, making each bite flavorful.
• Don’t skip rinsing the pasta: Rinsing the cooked pasta helps cool it quickly, preventing it from overcooking and becoming mushy. This step ensures a pleasantly firm texture in your salad.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences—bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives can add even more flavor and crunch!
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors as they meld together. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Taste and adjust seasonings: Before serving, always taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of salt or another splash of olive oil can elevate the dish remarkably.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

When it comes to presenting your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, there are several creative ways to serve it that will impress your guests while maintaining its delicious flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some extra chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of cracked black pepper not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing visual contrast.
• Grated cheese: A little more grated parmesan on top can make for an elegant finishing touch that indicates this dish is as delightful as it sounds.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the pasta salad perfectly and is always a crowd favorite.
• Caprese Skewers: These easy-to-assemble skewers made with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite alongside your salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds depth and nutrition to your meal while balancing out the flavors of the pasta salad.
• Greek Yogurt Dip with Veggies: Pairing this creamy dip with crunchy veggies offers a delightful contrast in textures and makes for a healthy side option that brightens up any table setting.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy making this delicious dish that brings everyone together around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is an excellent choice for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or gatherings. You can make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you’d like, drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top before sealing to help retain moisture.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for later use.
• To freeze, place the salad in a freezer-safe bag or container, leaving some space for expansion.
• It’s recommended to consume frozen pasta salad within 1-2 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• If you prefer your pasta warm, transfer the desired amount to a microwave-safe dish.
• Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For best results, consider adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved dressing to restore moisture.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common inquiries about Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad!

Can I make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and add a little extra dressing before serving if needed.

How long does Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

Your pasta salad will stay fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Just remember to check for freshness before enjoying!

What can I substitute for mozzarella pearls in this recipe?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using diced provolone cheese or even vegan mozzarella if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Can I add other vegetables to Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini. The more colorful, the better!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad! It’s not only vibrant and tasty but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it at your next gathering, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!