Description
This Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant celebration of flavors, perfect for any occasion. With fresh ingredients and a delightful basil pesto, it’s a dish that will impress your taste buds.
Ingredients
- Fusilli or penne pasta
- Homemade basil pesto or store-bought pesto
- Ripe cherry tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Bell peppers or cucumbers
- Pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- If you’re making homemade pesto, blend together fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. If using spinach or arugula, add it here as well.
- Use a spatula to gently combine everything, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the pesto.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- If you have time, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Keywords: This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. Feel free to customize with roasted vegetables, olives, or grilled chicken. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be added as a garnish, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor.