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As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, pasta salads emerge as a quintessential dish for warmer months. Light, flavorful, and easy to prepare, pasta salads are perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple family dinner. Among the myriad of pasta salad options, the Chilled Tomato Basil Bliss Pasta Salad stands out as a refreshing and vibrant choice, perfect for those looking to savor the essence of summer in a bowl.

Cold Tomato Basil Pasta Salad

Discover the perfect summer dish with the Chilled Tomato Basil Bliss Pasta Salad! This refreshing salad features juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and aromatic basil, all combined with your choice of fusilli or penne pasta. It's not only vibrant in flavor but also packed with nutrients. Easy to make and ideal for picnics or family dinners, this dish embodies the essence of summer in every bite. Enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (fusilli or penne work well)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

½ red onion, finely chopped

1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

½ cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

1 tsp garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions
 

Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Place all the chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

      Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Toss in the fresh basil and mozzarella balls.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad, gently mixing to combine everything well. Ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

            Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

              Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle toss. Optional: sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch. Enjoy your refreshing Cold Tomato Basil Pasta Salad!

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