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Fresh Balsamic Vinaigrette Pasta Salad Recipe Easy Homemade with Mozzarella and Veggies

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A bright and refreshing pasta salad featuring a homemade balsamic vinaigrette, fresh mozzarella, and garden vegetables. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) short pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 8 ounces (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9 to 11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. While pasta cooks, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, dice red bell pepper, finely dice red onion if using, and roughly chop basil leaves. Add all veggies to the bowl with the cooled pasta.
  3. Drain fresh mozzarella balls and cut into bite-sized pieces if needed. Gently fold into the pasta and veggies.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake vigorously until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to marry. Before serving, toss gently and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente texture is key. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it quickly. Use fresh, ripe veggies for best flavor. Make the vinaigrette just before tossing the salad for brightness. Adjust seasoning progressively. If salad feels dry after chilling, add a splash more olive oil or balsamic vinegar. Keep dressing separate if preparing in advance to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, balsamic vinaigrette, mozzarella, summer salad, easy pasta salad, garden vegetables, homemade dressing

Find it online: https://islatable.com/fresh-balsamic-vinaigrette-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-with-mozzarella-and-veggies/