Mediterranean Pasta Salad

A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the best of Mediterranean ingredients in one delicious bowl. This Mediterranean pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings, picnic lunches, or as a light dinner option. The combination of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and savory tuna creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Recipe by Next DeliciousCourse: SaladsCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

• 200g mozzarella balls

• 250g baby plum tomatoes

• 1 bunch fresh basil

• 350g farfalle pasta

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 40g green olives

• 200g tuna

• Salt to taste

• Pepper to taste

Directions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta, stir once and cook for about 10 minutes or as directed on the packet.
• Prepare vegetables: Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes and cut into quarters. Slice the olives. Wash the basil.
• Prepare salad base: Put the tomatoes into a salad bowl and tear the basil leaves over them. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and mix.
• Cool pasta: When the pasta is ready, drain into a colander and run cold water over it to cool it quickly.
• Combine ingredients: Toss the pasta into the salad bowl with the tomatoes and basil. Add the sliced olives, drained mozzarella balls, and chunks of tuna.
• Let it meld: Mix well and let the salad rest for at least half an hour to allow the flavors to mingle.
• Finish and serve: Sprinkle the pasta with a generous grind of black pepper and drizzle with the remaining olive oil just before serving.

Recipe Video

Notes

• For authentic flavor, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Fresh mozzarella provides the perfect creamy texture
• Letting the salad rest allows flavors to develop fully
• Serve chilled for best results
• Can be made ahead and stored in refrigerator for up to 2 days

Why This Mediterranean Pasta Salad Recipe is Your New Favorite?

Looking for the perfect balance of fresh flavors and simple preparation? The Mediterranean Pasta Salad recipe is exactly what you need! This vibrant dish combines creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil into a refreshing meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Why choose this Mediterranean Pasta Salad recipe? It’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. The harmonious blend of San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and Mediterranean herbs creates authentic flavors that transport you to the Italian countryside.

This recipe stands out because it requires no complex techniques – just fresh ingredients and basic cooking skills. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, packing a picnic lunch, or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this salad delivers exceptional taste without the hassle.

The perfect combination of textures and flavors makes it ideal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free when using appropriate pasta varieties. Experience the Mediterranean lifestyle with this easy-to-make, restaurant-quality salad that’s guaranteed to become your go-to recipe for entertaining guests or satisfying your taste buds with authentic Italian flavors.