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Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto Pasta Salad

A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad tossed with vibrant basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella, perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and basil pesto, tossing until evenly coated.
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and toasted pine nuts to the pasta mixture. Gently toss to combine.
  4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Toast pine nuts lightly to enhance their nutty aroma.