Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish loaded with tender pasta, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, fresh basil, and a savory Italian-style dressing. This easy pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, meal prep, and family dinners. The combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh ingredients creates a refreshing salad that tastes like summer in every bite.
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow the pasta to cool completely before assembling the salad.
- While the pasta cools, chop the sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the red onion, and roughly chop the fresh basil.
- If desired, lightly toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir frequently until lightly golden and fragrant. Allow them to cool before adding them to the salad.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is fully combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, red onion, basil, and pine nuts. Toss gently to distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is coated evenly. Make sure the dressing reaches all the pasta and vegetables for the best flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and develop.
- Before serving, toss the salad one final time and garnish with extra basil, mozzarella pearls, or freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe. If using dry-packed tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 20 minutes before using to soften them.
- Allowing the salad to chill before serving greatly improves the flavor. The dressing absorbs into the pasta and helps the ingredients blend together beautifully.
- Be careful not to overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better after chilling and prevents the salad from becoming mushy.
Variations
- Add grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Mix in spinach or arugula for additional greens.
- Replace mozzarella pearls with crumbled feta cheese.
- Add sliced olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
- Include diced cucumber for added crunch.
- Add roasted red peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this pasta salad as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or burgers. It pairs especially well with Mediterranean-inspired meals and summer cookout menus.
- This salad is also delicious as a light lunch on its own. Add grilled chicken or shrimp to transform it into a complete meal.
- It works wonderfully for potlucks, picnics, holiday gatherings, and meal prep because it can be made ahead of time and served cold.
Tips
- Cool the pasta completely before adding the dressing.
- Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Toast pine nuts for extra depth and crunch.
- Chill the salad before serving whenever possible.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Reserve a few basil leaves and mozzarella pearls for garnish.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Prep Time / Cook Time / Chill Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings
Serves: 6–8 people
Nutritional Info (Approx.)
Calories: 360 per serving
Protein: 11g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
FAQs
Can I make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes. This pasta salad is actually even better when made ahead because the flavors have time to blend together. You can prepare it up to one day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving. If the pasta absorbs some of the dressing overnight, simply add a small splash of olive oil before serving.
What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?
Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes are the best choice because they are soft, flavorful, and ready to use. They blend beautifully with the dressing and provide a richer taste. Dry-packed tomatoes can also be used, but they should be softened in warm water before adding them to the salad.
Can I add protein to this pasta salad?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas make excellent additions. Adding protein transforms the salad from a side dish into a satisfying lunch or dinner that can stand on its own.
How long will this pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making leftovers especially delicious. Stir before serving and add a little extra dressing if needed.
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes. Feta cheese, goat cheese, Parmesan shavings, or even small cubes of provolone work wonderfully in this recipe. Each option adds its own unique flavor while complementing the sun-dried tomatoes.
Conclusion
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a simple yet elegant dish packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. With tender pasta, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s the perfect recipe for summer gatherings, meal prep, or easy family meals. One bite and you’ll see why this refreshing pasta salad quickly becomes a favorite.
