SUMMERY PASTA SALAD

Adapted from Pinch of Yum

Serves 10+

Takes 30 minutes


Ingredients:

1 pound uncooked pasta

4 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half (or quartered, if large)

2 zucchinis or summer squash, cut into quarters and thinly sliced

2 fresh onions, greens removed, halved and sliced

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls, cut in half

1/2 cup black olives, optional

1/2 cup basil, parsley, chives or dill, finely chopped, optional

Dressing:

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup white wine vinegar

1/4 cup water

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon sugar

2 teaspoons dried oregano 

2 teaspoons dried basil

1/4 teaspoon black pepper


Directions:

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions, adding 1 minute to cook time. Drain and rinse under cold water.

  2. In a mason jar, combine all dressing ingredients and shake vigorously to combine.

  3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with tomatoes, zucchini, onion, mozzarella, and olives and herbs, if using. Pour 3/4 of the dressing over the mixture and stir to combine. Reserve remaining dressing for adding right before serving. Taste and adjust salt, as desired.