Nobody trumps my nana when it comes to this dish! 5 stars!

Why Make This Recipe

There’s something special about recipes passed down through generations. This dish reminds us of family gatherings, warm kitchens, and the love that only a grandmother can cook into a meal. Nobody makes this dish like my nana, and that’s why it’s a five-star favorite!

How to Make This Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of pasta
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.
2. While the pasta cooks, in a large bowl, mix the cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the bowl with the tomato mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve This Recipe

This dish is perfect on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish. You can serve it warm as a main course or let it chill and serve it as a refreshing salad.

How to Store This Recipe

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The dish will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can reheat it in the microwave or enjoy it cold.

Tips to Make This Recipe

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• You can adjust the amount of basil and tomato to suit your taste.
• If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding some pine nuts or walnuts.

Variation

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to give the dish a personal twist. You can also switch the pasta with gluten-free options if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or parmesan for different flavors.

2. Is this dish good for meal prep?
   Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and can be enjoyed again the next day.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
   Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative, and you’ll have a delicious vegan dish!

Nana's Pasta Salad

This pasta salad, inspired by family traditions, combines fresh ingredients for a delightful dish that can be served warm or chilled.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 cups pasta Any type of pasta can be used.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Boil a large pot of salted water.
2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions.

Mixing

1. While the pasta cooks, in a large bowl, mix the cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese.
2. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the bowl with the tomato mixture.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything to combine.

Serving

1. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, making it perfect for any occasion. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or enjoy it cold.