Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Green Olivada

Ingredients for Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Green Olivada

• 1 garlic clove, peeled

• 300g coarsely chopped pitted green olives (from about 170g unpitted whole olives), divided

• 45ml capers, drained

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1/4 teaspoons dried crushed red pepper

• 120ml plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 450g gemelli, fusilli, or rotelle pasta

• 1125ml cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 230g package small (cherry-size) fresh mozzarella balls in water

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano

• Ingredient info: Fresh mozzarella balls packed in water are available at many supermarkets and at specialty foods stores and Italian markets.

With machine running, add garlic clove to processor through feed tube and process until finely chopped; turn off machine. Add 240ml chopped olives, capers, red wine vinegar, anchovy paste, mustard, and crushed red pepper. Using 6 on/off turns, process to chop coarsely. With machine running, gradually add 120ml olive oil, forming coarse puree. Transfer to bowl; stir in remaining 150g olives. Season olivada to taste with salt and pepper. DO AHEAD: Olivada can be made 3 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.

Cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain well. Transfer drained pasta to large bowl. Drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon oil over pasta; toss to coat. Cool, stirring occasionally.

Add olivada, halved tomatoes, mozzarella, and oregano to pasta; toss to coat. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.