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pesto pasta salad

Vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad for Effortless Summer Gatherings

This vibrant pesto pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings, combining seasonal ingredients for a light and flavorful dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound pasta, such as cavatelli or penne use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs
For the Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved substitute with diced bell peppers for a crisp twist
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into bite-sized pieces opt for vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped soak in cold water first to mellow flavor
  • 1/4 cup pepperoncini, chopped omit for milder taste or switch with olives
  • 1/4 cup parsley, finely chopped can be swapped for basil or arugula
For the Pesto
  • 3 cups basil leaves, fresh spinach can be used for a subtler flavor
  • 1/2 cup olive oil avocado oil offers a lighter option if preferred
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts walnuts or sunflower seeds can substitute
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese consider nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice using fresh lime juice provides a lovely zing
  • 2 cloves garlic roasted garlic adds sweetness for a different flavor profile
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • food processor
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Cooking and Assembly
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and sea salt. Process until smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with prepared pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoncini, and parsley. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed.
  5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adapt ingredients based on dietary needs, and chill salad for best flavor before serving.

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