Description
Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of basil pesto with perfectly cooked pasta and colorful vegetables. This quick and easy recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its delightful mix of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and zesty pepperoncini, each bite bursts with flavor. Serve it as a satisfying main course or a refreshing side dish that complements grilled meats beautifully. Perfect for picnics or meal prep, this salad can be made ahead and served chilled, ensuring that the flavors meld together for an even tastier experience. Customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it truly your own!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (cavatelli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (bite-sized pieces)
- 3 cups basil leaves
- ½ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup pine nuts
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic
- Sea salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a food processor, blend basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and any additional veggies or proteins you desire. Toss well to combine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook/Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg