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Pesto Pasta Salad

Vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad: Easy Summer Flavor in Every Bite

This Pesto Pasta Salad combines fresh basil, creamy pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes for a vibrant summer dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 350 g Spiral Pasta Swap with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 tbsp Salt Use a generous amount in boiling water.
For the Pesto
  • Basil Pesto Use fresh homemade or high-quality store-bought.
  • 2 tbsp Pine Nuts Can substitute with walnuts or almonds.
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves Provides freshness and color.
  • 1 small clove Garlic Minced for best results.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano enhances flavor.
  • 7 tbsp Olive Oil Can mix with grapeseed oil.
For Creaminess
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise Use extra olive oil for a lighter option.
For the Salad Add-ins
  • 250 g Cherry Tomatoes Halved for sweetness.
  • 220 g Bocconcini Halved for creaminess.
  • 1 cup Rocket/Arugula Leaves Adds fresh, peppery note.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • blender
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pesto Pasta Salad
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook according to package instructions, plus an additional minute. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool.
  2. In a blender, combine fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth but with a bit of texture. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add cooled pasta. Pour in the fresh pesto and mayonnaise, and mix until pasta is fully coated.
  4. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and bocconcini, being careful not to mash them.
  5. Toss in rocket or arugula leaves and carefully mix. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This cold pasta salad is a hit for gatherings or as a satisfying meal. Customize with different add-ins for variety.

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