Ingredients
Scale
Gathering these simple, fresh ingredients is like preparing for a family reunion in a bowl.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap the mayonnaise with sour cream for a tangier taste or use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water generously—my grandmother always said it should taste like the sea. Drain and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This creamy base is what makes this dish so special.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl along with the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss everything gently to coat with the creamy dressing.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top and give it one final toss. The glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that ties all the flavors together.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite more harmonious.
This recipe is forgiving, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Remember, cooking is about personal expression and love, not perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International