Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Pesto Pasta Salad, a perfect dish for summer picnics, quick lunches, or potlucks. This refreshing salad combines perfectly cooked pasta with a creamy basil pesto sauce, fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and crisp vegetables, all coming together in just 30 minutes. It’s not only easy to make but also customizable—feel free to add your favorite proteins and veggies! Enjoy a nutritious meal that impresses family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound pasta (cavatelli or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into small bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 3 cups basil leaves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a food processor, blend basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and any additional ingredients you prefer. Toss well to coat.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg