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As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dish to cool down your summer days. Enter the Chilled Summer Delight: Cold Marinated Tomato Pasta. This inviting pasta salad is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a burst of flavor that celebrates the bounty of the season. Perfectly chilled and infused with the essence of fresh ingredients, this dish makes for an ideal companion for outdoor gatherings, family picnics, or casual dinner parties.

Cold Marinated Tomato Pasta

Beat the summer heat with a delicious Chilled Summer Delight: Cold Marinated Tomato Pasta! This vibrant pasta salad showcases the season's freshest ingredients, including juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or light dinner parties, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Enjoy the health benefits of fresh vegetables and whole grains in every bite while impressing your family and friends with this refreshing recipe.

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) pasta (like farfalle or penne)

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.

      Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the marinated tomatoes. Toss well to combine and ensure the pasta is coated with the marinade.

        Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, as well as the lemon zest and juice. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt and pepper if necessary.

          Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the pasta to chill.

            Serve: Before serving, give the pasta a gentle toss. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh herbs.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | Serves 4-6