Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) Rotini or Fusilli pasta
  • 1 tbsp (15g) Salt
  • 2 cups (300g) Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz (225g) Fresh mozzarella pearls
  • 1/2 cup (25g) Fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
  • 1/4 cup (15g) Red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) Extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp (5g) Dried oregano
  • 1 clove (5g) Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) Salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) Black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Fill a large pot with water and add 1 tbsp salt. Bring to a rolling boil.
  2. Add the rotini and cook according to the box instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta in a colander and shake well to remove excess water.
  4. Return the steaming pasta to the bowl and toss with 2 tablespoons of the dressing. Note: This is where the flavor gets locked in.
  5. In a jar or small bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  6. Whisk vigorously for 30 seconds until the mixture looks opaque and combined.
  7. Toss the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and diced red onion into the pasta.
  8. Pour the remaining dressing over the top and fold gently with a spatula.
  9. Stir in the fresh basil chiffonade at the very end. Note: Do this last so the leaves don't bruise or turn brown.
  10. Let the Easy Tomato Pasta Salad rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving or refrigerate.