Italian Tomato Pasta Salad

Looking for a perfect dish to elevate your summer gatherings or weekday lunches? Look no further than our flavorful Italian Tomato Pasta Salad recipe. This delightful twist on a classic pasta salad combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes, the savory goodness of olives and feta cheese, and the aromatic herbs of Italy. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal on its own, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create this delicious and refreshing Italian Tomato Pasta Salad.

**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup black olives, sliced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the Pasta:** In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down. This step helps prevent the pasta from cooking further and sticking together.

2. **Prepare the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This flavorful dressing will infuse the salad with the perfect balance of tanginess and herbaceous notes.

3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked and cooled penne pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, chopped basil leaves, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly.

4. **Add the Dressing:** Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss the salad again to ensure that all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. The dressing not only adds zing to the salad but also helps marry the flavors together.

5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill. Before serving, give it a final toss to re-distribute the dressing and flavors.

6. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Just before serving, garnish the Italian Tomato Pasta Salad with a few extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of feta cheese. This final touch adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Serve the salad chilled and enjoy the delicious medley of flavors.

Italian Tomato Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite veggies to make it a complete meal. This salad also pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade on a warm summer day. Prepare a batch for picnics, potlucks, or as a simple weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy the taste of Italy in every bite with this delightful pasta salad recipe.