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Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad

Creamy Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad for Perfect Summer Days

This Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad is a refreshing dish, perfect for summer gatherings, combining smoky mozzarella with vibrant veggies and a tangy dressing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dishes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Mayonnaise Substitute half with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Use plain yogurt for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons White Wine Vinegar Apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Parsley Optional but recommended to brighten the flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Using fresh cloves yields the best results.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust based on your spice preference.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Can be substituted with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
  • 2 cups Baby Spinach Can be julienned for easier mixing.
  • 1 cup Roasted Red Bell Peppers Fresh peppers can replace roasted if needed.
  • 8 ounces Smoked Mozzarella Cheese Smoked gouda is a suitable swap.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Food Processor
  • large mixing bowl
  • Large spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, and run it under cold water for a minute to halt cooking. Set it aside to cool completely while you prepare the dressing.
  2. In a food processor, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, minced garlic, parsley, and parmesan cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors as needed, then transfer the dressing to a bowl and set aside for later.
  3. Dice the roasted red bell peppers and cut the smoked mozzarella into cubes. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chilled penne pasta, baby spinach, diced peppers, and mozzarella. Use large spoons to gently combine, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients throughout.
  4. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad incrementally, mixing with a large spoon as you go. Be careful to coat the salad thoroughly, but not overdress it; you can always reserve extra dressing for those who like more. Continue mixing until everything is well-coated and the flavors come together beautifully.
  5. Transfer the creamy smoked mozzarella pasta salad to a serving bowl or distribute onto individual plates. If desired, sprinkle additional parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor. Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. Ensure pasta is cooled before mixing to keep spinach fresh.

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