Spring Pasta

Spring Pasta Recipe: A Refreshing Delight for Warm Days

Spring brings not only flowers and sunshine but also the perfect opportunity to savor light and refreshing dishes. Today, I present to you a simple and delicious pasta recipe that is served cold and bursting with fresh flavors. This pasta salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even an outdoor picnic. It will surely become one of your favorite summer recipes!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 200 g short pasta (any preferred shape, such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 fresh mozzarella balls
- 4 medium tomatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Step by Step Preparation

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Place it over medium heat and wait for it to boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).

2. Cool the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold running water. This step is essential to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from sticking. Allow it to drain well in a colander.

3. Prepare the fresh ingredients: While the pasta cools, chop the tomatoes into medium-sized cubes. Cut the mozzarella into similar cubes to fit perfectly in the salad. The garlic can be sliced thinly or minced according to preference.

4. Mix the flavors: In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, mozzarella, and garlic. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Pour in the olive oil and mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Add the pasta: Introduce the cooled pasta into the bowl with the fresh ingredients. Gently toss, being careful not to crush the mozzarella. Ensure all ingredients are well coated with the oil and seasonings.

6. Serve: The pasta salad is served cold, so it’s ideal to let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before enjoying. This will allow the flavors to meld together and become even more delicious.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the pasta: Short pasta is ideal for this recipe as it holds the sauce and fresh ingredients better. You can experiment with different shapes to add texture.
- Mozzarella: If you prefer a stronger flavor, try smoked mozzarella. This will add a distinct note to the salad.
- Additional vegetables: You can add bell peppers, olives, or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
- Seasoning: If you are a fan of spices, add chili flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a more complex flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This pasta salad recipe is relatively light, with approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of olive oil used. The pasta provides carbohydrates for energy, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and mozzarella brings protein and calcium. Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats beneficial for the heart.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I substitute the pasta with a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can use rice or quinoa pasta to make the recipe more accessible.

- How can I store the pasta salad?
It is recommended to consume it within 2 days. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

- What drinks pair well with this salad?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are the perfect pairings to complement the refreshing taste of the salad.

Personal Note
This spring pasta recipe has become a tradition in my family. Every time I smell the fresh aroma of tomatoes and basil, I am reminded of the summers spent with loved ones, sharing meals filled with joy. I encourage you to add your own memories and variations to this recipe, making it a part of your culinary traditions!

Enjoy every bite and experiment with the ingredients! Bon appétit!