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Adding grated Parmesan cheese to your Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Bliss Pasta Salad can elevate the dish to another level. Parmesan offers a depth of flavor that complements the creaminess of the mozzarella and the tangy sweetness of the sun-dried tomatoes. It can be particularly beneficial if you desire a richer taste. When to use it? Simply sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the salad before serving, or mix it in with the dressing to ensure a more uniform flavor throughout the dish. The salty notes from the cheese harmonize beautifully with the other ingredients, creating a deliciously well-rounded experience.

Sun-Dried Tomato and Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Discover the refreshing taste of summer with the Sun-Dried Tomato & Mozzarella Bliss Pasta Salad! This vibrant dish combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, creating a delightful blend perfect for any gathering. Easy to prepare and customizable, this pasta salad is packed with nutrition from fresh vegetables and healthy fats. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this flavorful salad that will impress family and friends at your summer events!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups fusilli pasta

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and finely chopped)

1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella cheese)

1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)

1/2 cup baby spinach leaves (roughly chopped)

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn or chopped)

1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by filling a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt, and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add the fusilli pasta and cook according to the package directions until it achieves an al dente texture, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to completely cool.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Whisk the mixture vigorously until it emulsifies and all ingredients are harmoniously blended. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

      Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled fusilli pasta along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, Kalamata olives, roughly chopped baby spinach, thinly sliced red onion, and torn fresh basil leaves. Gently mix all these ingredients together using a large spoon or spatula.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss everything gently yet thoroughly to ensure that the dressing coats all components evenly, infusing the salad with flavor.

          Chill and Serve: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or place a lid on it, then refrigerate the pasta salad for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This resting time allows the ingredients to marinate and flavors to meld beautifully. Before serving, give the salad a good toss, taste once more, and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, top with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese for added richness just before serving.

            Enjoy: Serve this delightful pasta salad chilled or at room temperature, making it a perfect refreshing side dish for summer gatherings or a light yet satisfying main course.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6