Go Back

Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad

Fresh, vibrant, and perfect for school lunches or summer gatherings! 🍅🧀🌿 Rotini or penne pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing makes this pasta salad a crowd-pleaser.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad
  • 1 lb rotini or penne pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar balances acidity
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. 🍝
  2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, mozzarella, basil, and parsley. 🌿🧀
  3. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar. Pour over pasta and veggies. 🥗
  4. Toss gently to combine. Add optional black olives, pine nuts, and cucumber if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. ❄️
  5. Serve cold or at room temperature. Perfect for school lunches, picnics, or potlucks! 🍽️

Notes

Save this fresh Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad to your Pinterest board for quick and healthy lunch ideas! 🍅💡