This can serve as a vegetarian entree, or a side dish to accompany any main meat. This dish is best at room temperature, so if you refrigerate prior to serving, allow it to sit out for 30 minutes to take the chill off before serving.

To make this #dinnerdoneby9am I assemble the salad in the morning, with everything but the basil, refrigerate all day, then add the basil just before serving.

-1 box pasta, cooked according to package directions (I used whole wheat small shells)
-1/4 c olive oil
-1/4 c balsamic vinegar
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1 tsp sugar
-1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
-1 pack mini fresh mozzarella balls
-1 bunch basil, sliced into ribbons

In a medium bowl whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper and sugar. Toss with pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Serve immediately or chill until serving.