I love a good pasta salad, I can’t lie. This Balsamic Pasta Salad recipe is so easy to make, and is a total crowd pleaser.
This vibrant bow tie pasta salad is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. With a delightful mix of textures and flavors, it’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue or potluck. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make
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With just a few ingredients, and a about half an hour, you can make this delicious pasta salad. And the best part? It’s even better after it sits a little while, so make it the night before and pop it in the fridge.
How to Make Balsamic Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
Ingredients
- 16 oz Box Bow Tie Pasta (boiled)
- 16 oz Balsamic Dressing – We used Ken’s Steak House, but use your favorite.
- 5 oz Artisan Salami Slices
- Cherry Tomatoes (Summer mix for color variety)
- 4 oz Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- 8 oz Mozzarella Pearls
- 3 oz Can Sliced Olives
Instructions
- Place the boiled noodles into a large bowl.
- Add olives, tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, Parmesan & salami slices.
- Pour in balsamic dressing.
- Mix well.
- Serve and enjoy!
Additional Tips and Tricks
Add Some Greens: For added freshness, you can sprinkle some chopped basil or parsley on top before serving. This pasta salad is also great served on a bed of baby field greens.
Make it Ahead: This balsamic pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Chop Your Tomatoes: If your cherry tomatoes are really large, go ahead and cut them in half, if desired.
Make it Vegetarian: Skip the salami and add more vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, or red onions for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Customize the Dressing: If you prefer a different dressing, feel free to swap out the balsamic dressing for your favorite vinaigrette or dressing.
Add Crunch: Add some toasted pine nuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt, pepper, or additional herbs.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
This colorful balsamic pasta salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or just looking for a light and refreshing meal, this pasta salad is sure to please.