Pasta Salad with Pesto Recipe

by

Ingredients

Here’s a quick rundown of the main ingredients for this recipe. Feel free to customize based on what’s in your pantry.

For the Pesto:

  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts/almonds)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

  • 12 oz pasta (fusilli, farfalle, or penne work best)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup black or green olives, sliced
  • 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup arugula or spinach

This may contain: a white bowl filled with pesto pasta salad and topped with fresh mozzarella

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Let’s start with the base of your salad. Choose a pasta that holds the pesto well, like fusilli or penne.

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions.
  • Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.

Step 2: Make the Pesto

Homemade pesto is the heart of this dish, and it’s surprisingly easy to make!

  1. In a food processor, combine basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
  3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.

Pro Tip: Make extra pesto and store it in the fridge. It’s a lifesaver for quick meals!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Now comes the fun part—bringing everything together!

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and red onions.
  2. Add the pesto, starting with a few tablespoons and tossing gently to coat. Add more as needed.
  3. Toss in the arugula or spinach just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Final Thoughts

So, are you ready to give this pasta salad with pesto a try? It’s one of those recipes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this dish is a guaranteed success.

And remember, the best recipes are the ones you make your own. So don’t hesitate to experiment, add your personal touch, and enjoy every bite!

Now, grab your ingredients and start cooking—this vibrant pasta salad is waiting to become your new favorite dish.

Related Posts:

Leave a Comment