Servings: 6

INGREDIENTS:

• 7 medium Tomatoes, skinned & coarsely chopped
• 8 oz Angel hair pasta
• 3 Tbs Olive oil
• 1/3 cup Basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup Parsley, chopped
• 2 Scallions, minced
• 1/3 cup Green olives, sliced
• Salt & pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta.
2. In a serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chopped tomatoes, olive oil, basil, parsley, minced scallions, sliced green olives, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
4. Serve the pasta salad immediately.

Here are some variations you can consider for the described recipe:

1. Caprese Style: Add fresh mozzarella cheese to the salad. Cut the cheese into cubes or tear it into smaller pieces and toss it with the other ingredients. This variation will give the dish a Caprese salad twist.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roast vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant and add them to the salad for extra depth of flavor. Toss the roasted vegetables with the other ingredients before serving.
3. Protein Boost: Add protein to the salad by incorporating grilled chicken breast, cooked shrimp, or canned tuna. This will turn the dish into a more substantial and satisfying meal.
4. Citrus Addition: Squeeze the juice of a lemon or lime over the salad to add a bright and tangy citrus flavor. It will complement the fresh tomatoes and herbs.
5. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs based on your preference. Consider adding mint, cilantro, or dill for a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
6. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or chopped walnuts over the salad. The nuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
7. Spicy Twist: Add a kick of spice by including chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce. This variation will give the salad a spicy and flavorful twist.
8. Grain Substitute: Swap the angel hair pasta with a different type of pasta such as farfalle (bowtie), penne, or fusilli for a different texture and appearance.
9. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving. The sweet and tangy glaze will elevate the flavors and add a beautiful presentation.
10. Greens Addition: Toss in some fresh salad greens such as arugula or baby spinach for added freshness and nutritional value.

Here are some more details about the dish:

• Tomatoes: The dish highlights the use of coarsely chopped fresh tomatoes. It’s best to use ripe tomatoes to enhance the natural sweetness and juiciness of the salad. The skin of the tomatoes is typically removed before chopping.
• Angel Hair Pasta: Angel hair pasta, also known as capellini, is a thin and delicate pasta variety. It cooks quickly and has a silky texture. The cooked pasta serves as the base of the salad.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used as both a cooking oil for the pasta and as a dressing for the salad. It adds a smooth and rich flavor to the dish.
• Herbs: Chopped basil and parsley are added to the salad, providing fresh and aromatic notes. These herbs contribute to the overall freshness and enhance the taste of the tomatoes.
• Scallions: Minced scallions, or green onions, add a mild onion flavor to the salad. They provide a subtle crunch and a touch of color.
• Olives: Sliced green olives are included to add a briny and tangy element to the dish. They contribute a contrasting texture and flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are used to season the salad to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

NOTE: If desired, you can substitute green olives with an equal amount of black olives.