Strawberry Balsamic Pasta Salad
A vibrant and nutritious pasta salad that combines fresh strawberries, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant herbs, perfect for family gatherings or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 1 pound short pasta (fusilli, penne, or elbows) Choose your favorite shape for texture.
Fruits & Cheese
- 1 pound strawberries, sliced Freshness and natural sweetness; consider ripe peaches as a substitute.
- 16 ounces mozzarella balls, drained Creamy richness; can substitute with feta for a tangy twist.
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion Soak in cold water to mellow the flavor if too strong.
Herbs
- 1/3 cup thinly slivered fresh basil Provides aromatic depth; fresh parsley can be used as a substitute.
- 1/3 cup thinly slivered fresh mint Enhances the flavor profile; omit if not a fan.
Dressing
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil Avocado oil is a healthier alternative.
- 3 tablespoons honey Sweetness balances the dish; agave syrup can be used for a vegan option.
- 2 tablespoons golden balsamic vinegar White wine vinegar is a decent substitute.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust according to your dietary needs.
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Red pepper flakes can be used for heat.
Optional Toppings
- to taste roasted pistachios, sliced almonds, or toasted pine nuts Adds crunch and flavor contrast.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and season generously with salt.
- Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander, lightly rinse to prevent sticking, and allow to cool.
Combine Ingredients
- While the pasta cooks, slice the strawberries and red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries, red onion, drained mozzarella balls, and finely slivered herbs.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, golden balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well-combined.
- Drizzle this dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine.
Finishing Touches
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate in separate containers for up to 24 hours before assembling.
Notes
For meal prep, keep dressing separate until serving. You can make this salad a day in advance; just add strawberries right before serving for optimal texture.