Pacific Tamato Basil Pasta Salad
A vibrant and fresh pasta salad featuring ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy lemon, tossed with al dente spiral pasta and a light olive oil dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, casual gatherings, or light lunches, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse capers under cold running water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, sliced green onions, minced garlic, and shredded basil.
- In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and stir to combine.
- Fill a large pan with salted water and bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Add the cooked pasta to the salad bowl.
- Pour the olive oil over the salad and toss well to coat.
- Serve topped with shredded Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality extra virgin olive oil. If you don't have capers, chopped olives can be a good substitute. To make the salad heartier, consider adding cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken. This dish can be customized with additional Mediterranean ingredients like feta cheese or artichoke hearts, enhancing its flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish at a picnic. It pairs beautifully with Khyar Bil-Laban (Lebanese)(Cucumber-Yogurt Salad) or can be served alongside grilled meats for a complete meal. Garnish with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of Basil-Dill Vinaigrette Salad Dressing for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad can be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer, gently reheat it in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out. It's best to keep the Parmesan separate until serving to maintain its freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pacific Tamato Basil Pasta Salad contains roughly 116 calories, with 9g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad a day in advance. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. Mix the dressing in just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What type of pasta works best for this salad?
While spiral shape pasta is recommended for its ability to hold onto the dressing and ingredients, you can also use penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.
Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Absolutely! This pasta salad can be easily adapted to include proteins such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adding protein makes it a more filling meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).