Italian-Style Tomato Pasta Salads

Published July 1, 1999.

Raw tomato sauce is a refreshing alternative to traditional dressings for pasta salad--but is it necessary to peel and seed the tomatoes? And what about marinating?

The Problem

Italian-style pasta salads are not the pallid, chilled versions most Americans are used to. Rather, they consist of hot pasta tossed with a raw tomato sauce, then cooled to room temperature before serving. Unfortunately, for all of their authenticity, these dishes can be dull-flavored and watery.

The Goal

A full-flavored, refreshing tomato pasta salad, with the tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil clinging to the pasta strands.

The Solution

Seeding the tomatoes eliminates excess juice, which otherwise settles at the bottom of the bowl, taking with it the other flavors of the sauce. Making the sauce at the last minute allows the flavors to meld perfectly, without turning dull or losing the sweet, bright flavor of fresh tomatoes, as can happen when they're marinated.

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