Step 1

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer pasta to a large bowl.

Step 2

Gently stir in the tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and basil.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, shallot, garlic, sugar, salt, lemon zest and pepper. Drizzle vinaigrette over the salad, and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Editor's Tip: Olive oil is a key flavor in the vinaigrette, so use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. Use this guide on real versus fake olive oil to help find the best olive oil.