Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe
Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4
If you’re craving a refreshing and flavorful pasta dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table, this Mediterranean Pasta Salad is the perfect choice. With the vibrant flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes, tender tuna, creamy mozzarella, and olives, all tossed in a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is sure to satisfy. Easy to prepare and full of fresh ingredients, itβs ideal for warm days or when you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Farfalle pasta | 320g |
| Cherry tomatoes | 250g |
| Fresh basil | 20 leaves |
| Black olives (pitted) | 40g |
| Canned tuna in olive oil | 200g |
| Fresh mozzarella | 200g |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Black pepper | 1 pinch |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables and Ingredients
Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and cutting them into small pieces. Slice the pitted black olives into rounds. Fresh basil should be torn or chopped into small pieces. Set all these ingredients aside in a bowl for easy access. -
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the farfalle pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick. -
Prepare the Tuna and Dressing
While the pasta cooks, open the canned tuna and place it into a large bowl, including the oil from the can. Add the chopped cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the tuna. The oil from the tuna will act as a base for your dressing, adding flavor to the salad. -
Combine the Ingredients
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well, saving a bit of the cooking water to help mix the dressing if needed. Add the drained pasta to the bowl with the tuna and tomatoes. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is coated with the oil and the tomato juices. -
Add the Olives and Mozzarella
Next, add the sliced black olives to the pasta mixture. Tear the mozzarella into small bite-sized pieces, and add it to the bowl as well. The mozzarella will soften and become creamy as it mixes with the other ingredients. -
Season and Finish
Season the pasta salad with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the top for added flavor and richness. Toss everything together until well combined. -
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Mediterranean Pasta Salad either immediately or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. This dish can be enjoyed as a light lunch, dinner, or even as a side at a gathering.
Tips and Variations
- For a more robust flavor, you can add a handful of capers or sun-dried tomatoes to the salad.
- If you prefer a tangy twist, drizzle some balsamic vinegar along with the olive oil.
- Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for feta cheese for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor.
This Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious option that is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weekday meal, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
