Cold Marinated Tomato Pasta

As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dish to cool down your summer days. Enter the Chilled Summer Delight: Cold Marinated Tomato Pasta. This inviting pasta salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a burst of flavor that celebrates the bounty of the season. Perfectly chilled and infused with the essence of fresh ingredients, this dish makes for an ideal companion for outdoor gatherings, family picnics, or casual dinner parties.

Discover the perfect summer dish with Cold Marinated Tomato Pasta! This vibrant, chilled pasta salad is bursting with the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a zesty marinade. Ideal for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners, it’s quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Packed with health benefits and customizable to your taste, this refreshing recipe showcases the best of seasonal produce. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious taste of summer!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta (choose between farfalle or penne)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/4 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for a touch of sweetness)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Zest of 1 lemon (for brightness)

Juice of 1 lemon (for acidity)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, ensuring it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Prepare the Marinade: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Gently toss the mixture together, being careful not to break the tomatoes, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the marinade.

Combine with Pasta: Once the pasta has cooled, transfer it to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Use tongs or a large spoon to carefully toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well-coated in the flavorful marinade.

Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Fold in the freshly chopped basil and parsley, along with the lemon zest and juice. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired, balancing the flavors to your liking.

Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to blend beautifully together and enhances the dish's refreshing essence.

Serve: When ready to serve, give the pasta a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. Serve the pasta cold or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | Serves 4-6

Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve the pasta in a large, shallow bowl and scatter a few whole basil leaves on top as a finishing touch. A drizzle of olive oil just before serving can add a beautiful sheen. Enjoy this bright, refreshing dish at your next summer gathering!