Go Back
Hot Honey Pasta Salad Recipe (Sweet and Spicy Delight!)

Hot Honey Pasta Salad

Hot Honey Pasta Salad is a flavorful dish made with pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a sweet-spicy honey dressing. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta your choice, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your choice of pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water. Set it aside to cool.
  3. Step 3: While the pasta is cooling, prepare the fresh ingredients: halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the basil, and finely dice the red onion.
  4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined and taste to adjust seasoning.
  5. Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, chopped basil, and red onion. Pour the prepared dressing over the top and toss gently.
  6. Step 6: Serve immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Notes

For added texture, consider adding nuts or seeds such as pine nuts or sunflower seeds. If making ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.