Hot Honey Pasta Salad (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ The Zesty Dressing
01 -
¾ cup light olive oil (the smooth operator)
02 -
⅓ cup honey (for that golden sweetness)
03 -
¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed, no shortcuts!)
04 -
1 tbsp dried oregano (hello, Mediterranean vibes)
05 -
1 tbsp dried thyme (earthy and aromatic)
06 -
1 tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat tolerance!)
07 -
1½ tsp garlic powder (because garlic is life)
08 -
1½ tsp onion powder (for depth)
09 -
¾ tsp salt (to make flavors pop)
10 -
½ tsp black pepper (a gentle kick)
→ The Salad Stars
11 -
1 lb medium pasta (bowties or penne—fun shapes only!)
12 -
2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved, like little bursts of summer)
13 -
8 oz mozzarella pearls (drained well—no one likes a watery salad)
14 -
4 oz mini pepperoni slices (tiny, spicy meat confetti)
15 -
1½ cups baby arugula (for peppery freshness)
16 -
½ cup fresh basil (torn, not chopped—rustic charm!)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook the pasta al dente (check the package timing, but taste-test 1 minute early—it should have a slight bite). Drain and give it a quick cool-water rinse to stop the cooking. Shake off excess water like a dog after a bath!
02 -
In a large bowl (think big—you’ll thank yourself later), whisk all dressing ingredients until the honey dissolves and the oil emulsifies. It should look like a glossy, spicy potion.
03 -
Add the slightly cooled pasta to the dressing and toss like you’re flipping pancakes. Every noodle should get a shiny coat. Pro tip: Warm pasta drinks up flavors better!
04 -
Gently fold in tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoni, arugula, and basil. Imagine you’re tossing a salad for a food magazine photoshoot—gentle but confident hands!
05 -
Serve immediately for a warm salad, or refrigerate for 2+ hours (if you can wait). The flavors will mingle and deepen like old friends at a reunion.
# Notes:
01 -
**Pro Tip:** For peak texture, add arugula and basil just before serving—they’ll stay perky and bright.
02 -
**Make-Ahead Magic:** Mix pasta + dressing overnight, then add other ingredients the next day. The noodles will soak up ALL the flavor.
03 -
**Serving Suggestion:** Crumble extra pepperoni on top for a salty crunch. You’re welcome.