Pasta Salad with Tomatoes, Arugula and Fresh Herb Dressing

I recently hosted a dinner party that featured grilled lamb, rosemary chicken and roasted potatoes. On the side I wanted to serve something light, flavorful and fresh to balance the roasted meats and potatoes. This pasta salad was the star. The homemade creamy herb dressing is loaded with fresh herbs. The arugula and tomatoes up the health-factor, and the pasta makes the dish decadent. I ate the leftovers for lunch for days! Next time you can have the meat and potatoes, I’m happy with this pasta salad!

Pasta Salad with Tomatoes, Arugula and Fresh Herb Dressing
A healthy and delicious side dish that may be the star!
Serves 6

1 pound fusilli pasta
1/2 cup cilantro leaves
1/2 cup basil leaves
2 teaspoons coarsely chopped oregano leaves
1 garlic clove
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 1/2 cups baby arugula
1 1/4 cups grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 small red onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fusilli until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water, then drain again; transfer to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, in a food processor, combine the cilantro with the basil, oregano and garlic and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add the mayonnaise, olive oil and lemon juice and process until smooth. Season the herb dressing with salt and pepper.


Toss the fusilli with fresh mozzarella, arugula, tomatoes, red onion and the herb dressing. Season the pasta salad with salt and pepper and serve.


Recipe adapted from Food and Wine