This simple Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a delicious recipe bursting with flavor. With minimal ingredients to chop and simple prep, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in under 30 minutes! The use of reserved oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in the dressing elevates the flavor, making this salad a standout choice for picnics, barbecues, or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil brings vibrant flavors to your plate.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or make it the main course. It works great for meal prep too!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with veggies and protein-rich cheese, this salad is both satisfying and healthy.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, this pasta salad fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, you’ll need a few key tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly and preventing clumping.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta effectively while retaining its shape.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Pasta 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions.
2. When cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with baby spinach to wilt.
3. Rinse with cool water quickly or allow it to cool for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Toss the cooled pasta and spinach with chopped basil, diced red onion, julienned sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded parmesan, and mozzarella pearls (if using hot pasta, wait until it cools before adding mozzarella).

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

1. Toss about ¾ of the dressing with the pasta salad mixture.
2. Reserve ¼ of the dressing if waiting to serve later.
3. Chill for about 30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Enjoy your vibrant Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be served in various ways to suit different occasions, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or meal prep.

As a Main Dish

• A hearty option: Serve this pasta salad as a main course for lunch or dinner. It’s filling and packed with nutrients.

At Barbecues

• Perfect side: Bring this salad to your next barbecue. Its fresh flavors complement grilled meats beautifully.

For Meal Prep

• Easy storage: This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge. Prepare it ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.

With a Side of Bread

• Enjoy with bread: Pair this salad with crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.

As a Picnic Treat

• Take it outdoors: This dish is great for picnics. Its flavors develop even more after sitting for a while, making it a tasty choice on the go.

On a Buffet Table

• Crowd-pleaser: Include this salad in your buffet spread. It’s colorful and appealing, sure to attract attention!

How to Perfect Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

To elevate your Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, keep these tips in mind for the best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes enhance flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Add protein: Incorporate grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein and nutrition.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for varied flavors.
• Mix up the pasta types: Use different short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli for texture variation.

Best Side Dishes for Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic pairing that adds crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up any remaining dressing.
2. Caprese Salad
   A fresh and vibrant tomato and mozzarella salad that complements the pasta’s richness nicely.
3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasoned and charred veggies provide a smoky contrast to the bright flavors of the pasta salad.
4. Caesar Salad
   The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a delightful textural balance alongside the pasta salad.
5. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes offer heartiness that pairs well with the lightness of the pasta dish.
6. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory elements in the pasta salad.
7. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa make an attractive and nutritious side choice.
8. Antipasto Platter
   An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables enhances the Mediterranean theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can lead to a mushy salad. Always follow package instructions and taste for doneness.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: If you skip cooling the pasta, the heat can wilt the spinach too much and melt the mozzarella. Allow the pasta to cool properly before mixing in fresh ingredients.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: Relying solely on the sun-dried tomatoes for flavor can make your salad bland. Make sure to season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Ignoring Dressing Proportions: Using too little dressing can lead to a dry salad, while too much can make it soggy. Start with 3/4 of the dressing and adjust according to taste.
• Using Stale Ingredients: Fresh herbs like basil and quality cheeses make a big difference. Avoid using expired or stale ingredients which can compromise flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep it chilled until ready to serve again for best flavor.

Freezing Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to its fresh ingredients.
• If you must, freeze without cheese or fresh vegetables, keeping it for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes on medium power. Stir halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid high heat as it may alter texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

What type of pasta should I use?

Short pasta varieties like rotini, bow tie, or rigatoni work best. They hold onto the dressing and ingredients nicely.

How do I customize my Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad?

Feel free to add other ingredients like olives, grilled chicken, or different types of cheese based on your preferences!

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of those packed in oil?

Yes, but you will need to rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water or broth before adding them to your salad.

Final Thoughts

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make it a delightful dish that is sure to impress at any gathering. Try it today and enjoy!

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Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant and quick dish, perfect for any occasion. It combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy cheeses to create a delightful medley that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep, this salad offers a satisfying bite packed with nutrients. With minimal chopping and straightforward steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz short pasta (rigatoni, rotini, bow tie)
• 10 oz cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 3 oz baby spinach
• 1 jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil (8.5 oz)
• 1/2 red onion (diced)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan
• 8 oz mozzarella pearls
• 1/3 cup chopped basil
• Dressing: olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss with spinach to wilt.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta and spinach with basil, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, parmesan, and mozzarella.
3. Whisk together dressing ingredients until well mixed.
4. Toss the salad with about three-quarters of the dressing; reserve the rest. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor. Chill the salad to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Customize by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas.