Description
This Pesto Pasta Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a simple weeknight meal. Tender pasta is tossed with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and a vibrant basil pesto dressing, creating a satisfying and colorful salad.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta Salad:
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
Pesto Dressing:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and olives.
- Make the Pesto Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto and olive oil until smooth. Pour over the pasta and toss to coat.
- Season and Garnish: Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.
- Chill and Serve: Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or arugula for extra protein or greens.
- This salad can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
