easy basil pasta salad for summer gatherings

Easy Basil Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings

Ingredients

To create a delightful basil pasta salad that will impress your friends and family, gather the following ingredients:

• Pasta: 2 cups of rotini or fusilli pasta
• Fresh Basil: 1 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes
• Mozzarella Balls: 1 cup of mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• Red Onion: 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• Cucumber: 1 medium cucumber, diced
• Olive Oil: 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• Balsamic Vinegar: 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup of toasted pine nuts (optional)

Equipment

To make this basil pasta salad, you will need the following kitchen tools:

• A large pot for boiling pasta
• A colander for draining pasta
• A mixing bowl for combining ingredients
• A spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
• A knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Fill a large pot with water and add a tablespoon of salt. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
   • Add 2 cups of rotini or fusilli pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions or until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
   • Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander and rinse it under cold water for a few seconds to halt the cooking process and cool it down. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • While the pasta is cooking, wash all fresh produce.
   • Halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the basil leaves, finely chop the red onion, and dice the cucumber.

3. Mix the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Tasting and adjusting your seasoning at this stage can enhance the flavor profile of the salad.

4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella balls, chopped basil, red onion, and, if desired, pine nuts.
   • Pour the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Chill the Salad:

   • For optimal flavor, cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the salad cools down, making it more refreshing.

6. Serve:

   • Once chilled, give the pasta salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
   • Serve the basil pasta salad in a large bowl or individual serving dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, works as a light lunch, or can be the star of a summer potluck.

Tips for an Even Better Salad

• Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or olives. These additions can bring extra crunch and flavor to your salad.

• Protein Boost: To make this salad more substantial, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. This transforms it into a main course option.

• Basil Substitutions: If fresh basil is not available, you can use dried basil as a substitute, but reduce the amount to about one tablespoon. Alternatively, consider using other herbs like parsley or arugula for different flavor dimensions.

• Storage Suggestions: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it just as delicious the next day.

Nutritional Benefits

This easy basil pasta salad is not just a tasty summer dish; it is also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Pasta: Provides carbohydrates for energy, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings, especially for those engaging in outdoor activities.
• Basil: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, basil contributes to your overall health while adding aromatic flavors.
• Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers are low-calorie, hydrating options filled with vitamins and minerals essential for summer wellness.
• Olive Oil: A healthy source of fat, olive oil can help maintain heart health when used in moderation.

Final Serving Ideas

For the ultimate summer experience, serve your basil pasta salad alongside a glass of chilled lemonade or sweet iced tea. Consider pairing it with a light dessert—such as fruit salad or sorbet—to round off your summer gathering with a refreshing finish.

By incorporating these elements into your summer gatherings, your easy basil pasta salad can be a go-to dish showcasing not only delicious flavors but also vibrant colors and health benefits. Enjoy every bite!