Description
A delicious and refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad that combines rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil, all tossed in a flavorful pesto dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or chickpeas.
- Substitute the rotini pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg