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Crispy Cold Pasta Salad Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Fresh Basil

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A refreshing and crunchy cold pasta salad featuring crispy bowtie pasta, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle) – can substitute fusilli or penne
  • 3/4 cup (about 100 g) sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained
  • 1/2 cup (about 15 g) fresh basil, roughly chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra virgin)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup (about 50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. Drain and roughly chop 3/4 cup (100 g) sun-dried tomatoes. Roughly chop 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh basil leaves and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the cold pasta in a single layer and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Flip sections of pasta and cook another 3-4 minutes to crisp other sides. Work in batches if needed.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Transfer the crispy pasta back to the large bowl. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and Parmesan cheese if using. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to combine.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors marry. Before serving, toss again and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when crisping pasta; work in batches if necessary. Use medium heat to avoid burning. Rinse pasta with cold water after boiling to stop cooking and help crisping. Mix dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess. Add fresh basil last minute to keep it vibrant. To revive crispiness after chilling, quickly re-sear pasta in skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, cold pasta salad, crispy pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, summer salad, easy pasta recipe, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://recipebelle.com/crispy-cold-pasta-salad-recipe-with-sun-dried-tomatoes-and-fresh-basil-easy-and-perfect-for-summer/