Asian Sesame Noodle Salad
Some salads are sad, lifeless piles of lettuce. This one is not. Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil team up with pasta to create a dish that actually excites your taste buds. The balsamic dressing adds the perfect tangy kick, making every bite a balance of freshness and richness. It’s easy, quick, and just fancy enough to impress your friends (or yourself). Serve it as a side, a main, or straight from the fridge at midnight. No judgment. If you’re ready for a salad that doesn’t taste like regret, grab your ingredients. Let’s get cooking.
Asian Sesame Noodle Salad
A fresh, flavorful Caprese pasta salad loaded with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil, all tossed in a zesty balsamic dressing.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta rotini or penne hold the dressing well
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (for that sweet, juicy bite)
- 8 oz mozzarella balls because cheese fixes everything
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves torn (adds freshness and a little drama)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil the good kind
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar brings the tangy magic
- 1 garlic clove minced (because garlic is mandatory)
- 1 tsp honey balances the acidity
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper for a little kick
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Slice tomatoes, tear basil, and drain mozzarella while pasta cools.
- Whisk olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over everything and toss well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill for 15 minutes (or just eat it immediately if patience isn’t your thing).
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 8%
- Vitamin C: 12%
- Potassium: 9%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Want it richer? Add more mozzarella (because why not?).
- Swap honey for maple syrup if you’re feeling fancy.
- Throw in grilled chicken for extra protein.
- Let it sit longer for even better flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge—but good luck having any.
