If you’re looking for a dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and full of Mediterranean tastes, this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is your new best friend. It features wonderfully cooked pasta, vivid cherry tomatoes, luscious sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a tangy, garlicky sauce.
The combination of creamy mozzarella pearls and nutty parmesan provides the perfect amount of richness, while the spinach offers a gorgeous pop of green and a subtle earthiness.
Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it at a summer BBQ, or simply looking for a quick and tasty lunch, this salad is bright, crowd-pleasing, and really easy to prepare.
Ingredients You Will Need
These are simple ingredients, yet each serves an important part in making this salad absolutely wonderful.
Every ingredient, from the al dente pasta that serves as a solid foundation to the fresh basil that brightens each bite, is a star in its own right.
- 16 oz short pasta (rigatoni, rotini, bow tie, etc.): Choose a shape that holds the dressing and mix-ins well for maximum flavor in every bite.
- 3 oz baby spinach: Adds freshness and a light earthy note while gently wilting into warm pasta.
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes (halved): Brings natural sweetness and juiciness to balance the richness of the dressing.
- 1 jar (8.5 oz) sun-dried tomatoes in oil with Italian herbs (drained): Provides deep, tangy tomato flavor with subtle herbal complexity.
- ½ red onion (small diced): Adds mild sharpness and crisp texture to contrast the creamy elements.
- ½ cup shredded or shaved Parmesan cheese: Delivers salty, nutty umami richness throughout the salad.
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls: Creamy and smooth, offering soft texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta.
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil (packed): Infuses vibrant herbal brightness that ties all flavors together.
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing, adding smooth richness and body.
- ⅓ cup reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes (drained): Intensifies tomato flavor while enhancing the dressing with herb-infused depth.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (regular or white): Adds balanced tangy sweetness to complement the oils.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Provides bold aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that enhances the Mediterranean profile.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and subtle spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances and balances all natural flavors.
How to Prepare Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Cooked Pasta and Wilted Spinach
Begin by cooking your pasta al dente, as directed on the package, to ensure it has just the perfect bite to stand up to all of the fresh ingredients.
After draining, gently toss the heated pasta with baby spinach to soften the leaves and integrate their flavors.
Cooling the pasta slightly with a rinse of cold water or allowing it to sit for 15-20 minutes keeps the salad fresh and prevents the mozzarella from melting too quickly.
Step 2: Combine the fresh ingredients.
Combine the cooled pasta and wilted spinach with the fresh, chopped basil, diced red onion, and juicy split cherry tomatoes.
Combine the julienned sun-dried tomatoes, which add concentrated taste, with the parmesan and mozzarella pearls.
If the spaghetti is still warm, wait until the salad has cooled before adding the mozzarella to preserve the small cheese balls intact and deliciously creamy.
Step 3: Whisk the flavorful dressing.
The dressing is what makes or breaks a good pasta salad. Combine extra virgin olive oil, the fragrant oil from sun-dried tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and aromatic.
This combination creates a delectable, zesty coating that clings to every bite of pasta and vegetables.
Step 4: Toss and chill to marry the flavors.
Toss the pasta salad with three-quarters of the dressing, being sure to coat everything thoroughly and evenly. Save the remainder for shortly before serving to preserve the flavors fresh and vivid.
Chill the salad in the fridge for approximately 30 minutes, allowing all of the wonderful flavors to combine and blossom into something truly tempting.
When ready to serve, give it one last toss with the reserved dressing for a flawless finish.
How to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves or additional parmesan. A few roasted pine nuts or a handful of black olives can add fantastic texture and complimentary flavors, elevating the salad to something exceptional.
Side Dishes
This pasta salad is ideal with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or a fresh green side salad. It also pairs well with a cold cut plate or fresh garlic bread, helping to balance and round off your meal.
Creative ways to present
Serve this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe in individual mason jars for a festive picnic or party presentation.
Layering the salad ingredients with dressing at the bottom keeps everything fresh and organized until you’re ready to mix and serve.
Alternatively, create a truly lovely centerpiece by scattering edible flowers or microgreens on top of an attractively colored serving bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing leftovers.
This pasta salad keeps nicely in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen and improve overnight, so if you can wait, the leftovers may be even better than the initial serving!
Freezing
Because of the fresh ingredients and cheese, freezing is not advised for this salad. When pasta is frozen, its texture changes, and fresh components lose their vitality. Instead, eat the leftovers within a few days of making them.
Reheating
This salad is best eaten chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it somewhat warmer, take it out of the fridge approximately 30 minutes before serving and gently whisk in any remaining dressing. Avoid microwaving to preserve texturing.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Short pasta forms such as penne, rotini, and farfalle are ideal because they hold the dressing and toppings well, making each bite tasty and balanced.
What if I can’t find sun-dried tomatoes in oil?
You can use dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes rehydrated in warm water, but the taste may be less robust and the salad dryer; simply add a little more olive oil to compensate.
Is this salad appropriate for meal preparation?
Yes! It really tastes better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to blend, making it an excellent choice for lunches or quick meals all week.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To keep it vegan, simply leave out the parmesan and mozzarella, or substitute vegan cheese substitutes or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How should I modify the seasonings?
Begin with the prescribed salt and pepper, then taste and adjust to your preferences. Fresh garlic and balsamic vinegar provide brightness, but feel free to adjust the proportions according on your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate: vibrant, cozy, and love-filled. Try it the next time you want something simple to prepare but stunning to serve. I assure it will quickly become your favorite go-to for dinners, events, or simply treating yourself to something great.