Best 2 Fresh Tomato Basil Pasta Salad Recipes

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In the realm of culinary delights, few dishes evoke the essence of summer's bounty quite like a refreshing tomato basil pasta salad. This vibrant and flavorful dish encapsulates the best of what the season has to offer, combining sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tender pasta in a symphony of taste and texture. With its versatility as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even a delightful picnic staple, tomato basil pasta salad stands as a testament to the culinary magic that can be conjured from the simplest of ingredients.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

FRESH TOMATO-BASIL-ASPARAGUS PASTA SALAD



Fresh Tomato-Basil-Asparagus Pasta Salad image

My favorite kind of summer meal when tomatoes are peaking. You can also just chop up a large tomato versus using grape tomatoes. This is from SOuthern Living.

Provided by KathyP53

Categories     Vegetable

Time 1h14m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 (16 ounce) package bow tie pasta
1 lb fresh asparagus
1 cup bottled lemon vinaigrette
1 (1 ounce) package fresh basil, chopped
1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions, adding asparagus, cut into 2" pieces, during the last 2 minutes of cooking time. Drain and rinse under cool water.
  • Stir together 1 cup bottled lemon vinaigrette and chopped basil. Pour 3/4 cup of dressing over pasta mixture. Stir in tomatoes, and salt and pepper to taste. COver and chill 1 hour. Toss with remaining dressing just before serving. Garnish with additional freshly basil.

FRESH TOMATO BASIL PASTA SALAD



FRESH TOMATO BASIL PASTA SALAD image

Categories     Pasta     Tomato     Low Fat

Yield makes 4 generous servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

3 cups tomatoes (preferably cherry, vine-ripened or heirloom), sliced
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup basil chiffonade
1 box angel hair or spaghetti
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup good quality balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
sea salt

Steps:

  • Thinly slice tomatoes (if Cherry tomatoes, cut in half) and toss with onions, basil and garlic in a large bowl. Cook pasta according to package instructions. When al dente, drain and rinse in cold water to cool. Add pasta to tomatoes; toss. Add oil and vinegar, toss and season with sea salt to taste. Serve.

Tips:

  • Choose fresh, ripe tomatoes. This will ensure the best flavor.
  • Use a variety of colors of tomatoes. This will add visual appeal to your salad.
  • Cut the tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. This will make them easier to eat.
  • Use fresh basil. This will give your salad a bright, herbaceous flavor.
  • Chop the basil finely. This will help to distribute the flavor throughout the salad.
  • Use a good quality olive oil. This will help to enhance the flavor of the tomatoes and basil.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice. This will help to brighten the flavors of the salad.
  • Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve the salad immediately or chill it for later.

Conclusion:

This fresh tomato basil pasta salad is a delicious and refreshing summer dish. It's easy to make and can be served as a main course or side dish. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy dressing is sure to please everyone at your table.

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