Easy Pasta Salad with Jalapeño Basil Vinaigrette

5 from 2 votes

This easy pasta salad with jalapeño basil vinaigrette combines fresh vegetables, zesty flavors, and a homemade dressing that is just epic!

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Servings:

8 ounce /1/2 pound pasta your choice of a short shape such as rigatoni, penne, we are using Gemelli
1 cup snap peas thinly sliced
1 bunch radishes (around 4-5) thinly sliced
1 large yellow zucchini halved lengthwise and cut into half moons
1 large green zucchini halved lengthwise and cut into half moons
8 ounce fresh mozzarella cheese roughly torn, we are using bocconcini
small bundle of fresh basil and parsley

In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, jalapeño pepper, olive oil, salt, pepper, sherry vinegar, and the bundle of fresh basil. Blend until smooth and well combined. If needed, add a little more oil to achieve the desired consistency. Set aside.
Bring a large pot to a boil, salt when boiling. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until cooked through. (You don't want this al dente because you'll be rinsing it off to cool when fully cooked). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Make your zucchini. We sliced the zucchini lengthwise and scored the zucchini with salt, pepper and a drizzle of olive oil, then placed on the grill until cooked through and charred. You can make this in the oven or on the stovetop, or even raw.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced snap peas, sliced radishes, yellow zucchini, green zucchini, fresh basil and parsley.
Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetables, tossing well to coat everything evenly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Gently fold in the torn mozzarella cheese, distributing it evenly throughout the salad.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to all come together. When ready to serve, give it a final toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled and enjoy!