Italian Pasta Salad - Pasta al Checca

fresh mozzarella

🥗Healthier: low-fat mozzarella

💰Cheaper: cubed cheddar

Cheddar is often less expensive and still adds a creamy texture.

balsamic vinegar

🥗Healthier: apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: red wine vinegar

Red wine vinegar is usually cheaper and offers a similar tang.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Pecorino is often less expensive and provides a similar salty flavor.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is a more budget-friendly option for dressing.

Cook oretti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; strain and cool in cold water to stop cooking.

Chop red and green bell peppers and add to a mixing bowl.

Toast pine nuts in a cast iron pan until fragrant; add to the bowl.

Pluck oregano leaves and add to the mixture.

Add olives to the bowl, adjusting for saltiness based on olive type.

Chop heirloom tomatoes and add to the mixture.

Chop parsley and basil; add to the bowl and mix well.

Add capers to the mixture and stir to combine.

Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt; mix again.

Serve with additional pine nuts and basil leaves on top.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens