Pasta Salad

 https://www.cucinabyelena.com/italian-style-pasta-salad-mozzarella-tomato-and-arugula/

 

Ingredients

• 1 pint (275g/ 10oz) cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 2 cups (150g/ 5oz) pre washed arugula salad
• 12 oz (340g) fresh mozzarella balls such as bucconcini, pearls, or ciliegine
• ½ cup good quality olive oil, such as COLAVITA
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional- it great with and without!)
• ¾ lb (a little less than one full 454 grams Barilla box) pasta of your choice
• 6 basil leaves torn by hand
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

1.  In a large serving bowl toss the tomatoes, olive oil, vinegar (if using), basil, salt and pepper. Let sit on counter for 5-10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, boil 6 quarts water and add 3 tablespoons of salt to season the pasta water. Cook pasta according to package directions for 'al dente' texture.
3. While pasta is cooking add the arugula to the bowl of tomatoes and let sit until the pasta is done cooking.
4. When pasta is done cooking, strain, and add to the bowl of prepared ingredients. Toss to coat evenly. Let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Add the mozzarella balls on top and drizzle liberally with more olive oil and a little salt and pepper. If you add the mozzarella when the pasta is too hot is will melt and not taste or look the same.
6. Serve warm, room temperature, or cold!