Tomato Basil and Bean Pasta Salad
Makes:
12 servings
Beans, tomatoes, and basil are mixed with pasta and a tasty vinaigrette to give you a easy and tasty meal. Bring this pasta salad to your next cookout or gathering. Add whatever vegetables you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (ziti, bow tie or other shaped pasta)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or cooking oil of your choice)
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
- 3 large tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes)
- 1 cup kidney beans (cooked or low-sodium canned drained, or try garbanzo beans or black beans)
- mozzarella cheese, fat-free (cubed or shredded cheese, optional)
- walnuts (chopped, optional)
Directions
- Wash hands with soap and water.
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and cool.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, vinegar, Dijon-style mustard, and pepper to make vinaigrette.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, beans, basil, and tomatoes. Pour vinaigrette over top and toss together. Cover and chill at least 1 hour.
- If desired, add nuts and cheese just before serving, tossing again to combine.
Notes
- Optional ingredients, walnuts and mozzarella, are not included in nutrition analysis and cost estimate.
- Add other fresh chopped vegetables such as cucumbers, peppers, small summer squash, carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower.
- Use your favorite salad dressing instead of making your own.
Learn more about:
Farm Fresh Summertime Recipes
Connecticut Food Policy Council
