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Pesto Pasta Salad

Deliciously Easy Pesto Pasta Salad for Fresh Flavor Fixes

Enjoy a refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad that whips together fresh ingredients in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 287
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Cavatelli or Penne the main structure of your pesto pasta salad, ensuring a satisfying bite.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved; they add a burst of sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella cut into bite-sized pieces; replaces creaminess.
  • ½ cup Red Onion finely chopped; gives a sharp crunch.
  • ¼ cup Pepperoncini chopped; offers a touch of tang and heat.
  • ¼ cup Parsley finely chopped; adds freshness.
For the Pesto
  • 3 cups Basil Leaves fresh or store-bought works beautifully!
  • ½ cup Olive Oil enriches the pesto.
  • ⅓ cup Pine Nuts lend a nutty creaminess to the pesto.
  • ⅓ cup Parmesan Cheese grated; infuses umami goodness.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice brightens up all the flavors.
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced; adds depth and aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt enhances the overall flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper a pinch of spiciness.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Food processor
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Directions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add 1 pound of cavatelli or penne and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes until al dente.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the homemade pesto by combining all pesto ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the freshly made pesto and add the vegetables. Gently toss everything together.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 287kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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