why make this recipe

Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh flavors and colorful ingredients. It is perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or a side dish at a barbecue. The vibrant basil pesto brings everything together, making it both tasty and visually appealing. This recipe is not only easy to make but also great for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge.

how to make Pesto Pasta Salad

Ingredients :

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

Directions :

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until tender. Check the package for the recommended cooking time. Drain the pasta and rinse it well under cold water.
Make the pesto: While the pasta cooks, prepare the basil pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. Scoop the pesto out of the food processor and set it aside.
Assemble the pasta salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoncini, and parsley. Toss until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

how to serve Pesto Pasta Salad

Serve Pesto Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. Garnish with extra pine nuts and parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.

how to store Pesto Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can be kept for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even tastier the next day.

tips to make Pesto Pasta Salad

Use different pasta shapes for a fun twist.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Feel free to include your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach.
If storing, keep the pesto separate until ready to eat to prevent the pasta from getting mushy.

variation (if any)

You can make a vegan version of this salad by omitting the cheese and using nutritional yeast instead. Additionally, try substituting walnuts or cashews for the pine nuts to change up the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own?
Yes, store-bought pesto can save time. Just mix it with the pasta and other ingredients.

2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time for lunches or picnics.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or spinach, for extra nutrition and flavor.