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–+ servings

Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful dish made with short pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz short pasta Rigatoni, rotini, bow tie, etc.
  • 3 oz baby spinach Fresh and vibrant for added nutrition.
  • 10 oz cherry tomatoes Halved for sweetness and color.
  • 1 jar sun-dried tomatoes in oil with Italian herbs 8.5 oz, oil drained for flavor infusion.
  • 1/2 red onion Small diced for crunch and sharpness.
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan Adds creaminess and depth of flavor.
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls Creamy and delightful bites.
  • 1/3 cup chopped basil Fresh herbs elevate the dish's aroma and taste.
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil Rich base for the dressing.
  • 1/3 cup oil drained from sun-dried tomatoes Intensifies the dressing's flavor profile.
  • 2 T balsamic vinegar A touch of acidity balances out the flavors.
  • 2 garlic cloves Minced for aromatic goodness.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs enhances the overall taste.
  • 1/2 tsp pepper For a hint of spice, adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp salt More or less to taste depending on preference.

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with baby spinach in a large bowl until slightly wilted.
  2. Prepare the other ingredients by chopping the basil, dicing the red onion, halving the cherry tomatoes, and draining the sun-dried tomatoes from their oil.
  3. In the large bowl with cooled pasta and wilted spinach, add chopped basil, diced onion, julienned sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded parmesan cheese, and mozzarella pearls.
  4. In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt until well combined.
  5. Pour about three-quarters of your dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly while reserving some dressing for later.
  6. Cover your salad and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully. Just before serving, give everything another gentle toss with any remaining dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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