Description
Pesto pasta salad is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family lunch or a potluck with friends. This vibrant salad combines perfectly cooked pasta with fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella for an explosion of flavor in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile – serve it as a main course, side dish, or even in lettuce wraps for a light meal. With its healthy ingredients and make-ahead convenience, this pesto pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (cavatelli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (bite-sized pieces)
- 3 cups basil leaves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a food processor, blend basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and any additional ingredients like red onion or parsley. Toss well to coat.
- Chill before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg