When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing and vibrant dish like Italian Pasta Fruit Salad to brighten up any meal or gathering. This delightful combination of pasta, fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs is a celebration of summer flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a light and satisfying meal on a sunny day, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Italian Pasta Fruit Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, strawberries, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, red onion, and black olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and fruit mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
7. Enjoy this Italian Pasta Fruit Salad as a light and delicious dish perfect for any occasion!
This Italian Pasta Fruit Salad is a versatile recipe that can easily be customized to your liking. Feel free to swap out the fruits and veggies with your favorites, such as peaches, cucumbers, or bell peppers. You can also add a protein of your choice, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it a heartier meal. The key is to keep the ingredients fresh and colorful to create a beautiful and tasty dish that will brighten up your table.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, packing a picnic basket, or looking for a quick and nutritious meal, this Italian Pasta Fruit Salad is a fantastic option that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Give it a try and experience the wonderful combination of flavors and textures that make this salad a standout dish. Buon appetito!
