Summer Favorites

Tomato Basil Pasta Salad

Source: Found on Pinterest

Great side dish or toss some chicken or other protein in for a full meal!

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. Rotini pasta (we like whole grain)
  • 2 c. baby spinach
  • 1 c. sliced cherry tomatoes
  • 1/3 c. chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 c. thinly chopped red onion
  • 1/8 t. crushed red pepper
  • 1/3 c. grated Parmesan Romano and cheese, optional
  • 1 avocado, cubed

Dressing

  • 3 Tbls. olive oil
  • 1/3 c. balsamic vinegar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • sea salt
  • cracked pepper

Instructions

Prep and cut all of the vegetables.

In a small bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, garlic, salt and pepper, set aside.

Boil pasta according to package instructions.

Once pasta is cooked, drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add spinach to pasta immediately and stir. This will allow the spinach to wilt a bit from the heat of the pasta.

Add tomatoes, basil, onion and crushed red pepper.

Pour the dressing in and stir to coat evenly.

Finally, stir in cheese (if using).

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to one hour. Stir in avocado just before serving.