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Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes: A Refreshing Summer Treat

This Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant summer dish, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Cavatelli or Penne Gluten-free pasta can be used.
For the Pesto
  • 2 cups Fresh Basil Spinach can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Walnuts or sunflower seeds can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast is a vegan option.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Light or avocado oil can be substituted.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used in a pinch.
For the Salad
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted.
  • 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Dairy-free cheese can be used for vegan version.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Pickled jalapeños can be used for extra heat.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Adjust quantity to taste.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • food processor
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the pasta and cook for 8-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a food processor, combine fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. In a mixing bowl, add cooled pasta and pesto. Toss to coat well. Fold in cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoncini, parsley, and red onion.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt or pepper or a splash of olive oil if needed.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Use homemade pesto for the best flavor. Mix cheese just before serving to keep it fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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