Description
A vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad filled with greens, cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and flavorful pesto, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, pesto sauce, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Toss well: Use a spatula or tongs to gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with pesto, and the ingredients are well distributed.
- Season to taste: Sprinkle with salt and pepper, adjusting according to your preference.
- Garnish and serve: Place fresh basil leaves on top for a lovely presentation, and serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Make this salad a day ahead to let the flavors meld beautifully. For a unique twist, consider roasting cherry tomatoes to intensify their sweetness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg