Pesto Pasta Salad
Discover the vibrant flavors of this Pesto Pasta Salad, a perfect blend of fresh ingredients that brings life to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or attending a potluck, this salad is quick to prepare and packed with delightful tastes. The creamy basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and soft mozzarella create a harmony of flavors in every bite. Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also loaded with nutrients from vegetables and wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying choice for any occasion. Best of all, it can be made ahead of time—just chill in the fridge for effortless serving. Enjoy this dish as an enticing main course or a refreshing side that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling/Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (such as cavatelli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into small pieces)
- 3 cups basil leaves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic
- Sea salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth to make the pesto.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and any additional ingredients like red onion or parsley. Toss well to combine.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Find it online: https://trandtaste.com/pesto-pasta-salad/