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Pesto Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings and picnics, featuring cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and homemade pesto.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (such as cavatelli or penne)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into small bite-sized pieces)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
  • 3 cups basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts
  • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, following package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Prep the ingredients by chopping cherry tomatoes, red onion, pepperoncini, and parsley.
  3. Make the pesto by combining basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and parmesan cheese in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, then drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth paste.
  4. Combine the cooked pasta with the pesto in a mixing bowl, ensuring every piece is coated.
  5. Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, pepperoncini, and parsley to the pasta and toss gently.
  6. Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients, such as adding grilled chicken or using walnuts instead of pine nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, pesto, summer salad, vegetarian recipes, easy recipes

Find it online: https://savoryaddict.com/minute-pesto-pasta-salad-weeknight-meal-prep/