Creamy Cheese and Tomato Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Rotini or fusilli pasta
• 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces Fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar
• 1 Garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with tomatoes, cheese, and basil.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with additional basil if desired.

Nutrition