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Basil Pesto Pasta Salad

Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta Salad: A Quick & Tasty Delight

Enjoy vibrant Basil Pesto Pasta Salad, perfect for gatherings or a flavorful meal, bursting with freshness and customization options.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta or your favorite pasta shape
For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Leaves always choose fresh
  • ¼ cup Pine Nuts toasted for depth
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese substitute with nutritional yeast for vegan
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic fresh is best
  • ½ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil high-quality for richness
For the Salad
  • 1 cup Halved Cherry Tomatoes or grape tomatoes
  • 1 cup Fresh Mozzarella Balls can substitute with crumbled feta

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Salad Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Pulse until finely chopped. While blending, drizzle in extra virgin olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta and the freshly made basil pesto. Mix gently until well-coated. Fold in halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls.
  4. Toss everything together, adjusting with salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Fresh ingredients enhance flavor. Customize the salad with your favorite veggies or proteins. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days for the best taste.

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