Description
A fresh and vibrant pasta salad tossed with homemade basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Perfect as a light meal, potluck dish, or flavorful side.
Ingredients
- 12 oz short pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or diced mozzarella
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (for pesto)
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- â…“ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts or walnuts
- 1 clove garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool.
3. In a food processor or blender combine basil, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend the pesto until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
5. If the pesto is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or extra olive oil until desired consistency is reached.
6. Taste the pesto and add lemon juice if desired for extra brightness.
7. Place the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl and toss with the pesto until evenly coated.
8. Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.
9. Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the salad and lightly toss.
10. Let the salad rest for about 15 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld.
Notes
Use sturdy pasta shapes like fusilli or penne so the pesto clings well.
Walnuts can replace pine nuts for a more budget-friendly pesto.
This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Great for potlucks, meal prep lunches, or as a side with grilled meats or seafood.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg