Description
Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the delightful flavors of basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer picnics, light lunches, or as a flavorful side at gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a customizable meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy it chilled to enhance the freshness of the ingredients, making every bite a burst of flavor. Add your favorite veggies or proteins for an extra twist, ensuring this pasta salad will impress everyone at your next event.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound cooked pasta (al dente)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach (chopped)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup sliced olives
- 1 can chickpeas or white beans (rinsed and drained)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 7 ounces basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, onion, mozzarella, olives, and beans; toss gently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together basil pesto, olive oil, and red apple vinegar until combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture; toss until all ingredients are coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled; optional: garnish with grated parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg