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jhessica

Pesto Pasta Salad that Will Wow Your Taste Buds!

A delicious and refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad that combines rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil, all tossed in a flavorful pesto dressing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  6. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve chilled, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g

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.

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