Description
Elevate your summer gatherings with this vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad Exquisite, bursting with fresh basil pesto, al dente pasta, and a rainbow of crisp vegetables. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a flavor-packed option that’s perfect for potlucks or quick lunches. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, this salad is sure to become your go-to recipe during the warmer months!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix pesto with olive oil; adjust consistency as needed.
- Add cooled pasta to the vegetable mix and pour the pesto dressing over it. Toss to coat evenly.
- Fold in Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
