Description
Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer with every bite. This delightful salad features spiral pasta tossed in vibrant basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy bocconcini, and peppery arugula. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare in just 30 minutes. Make it ahead of time and serve chilled for a refreshing meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 350g spiral pasta (fusilli or your choice)
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 250g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 220g baby bocconcini, drained and halved
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 7 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup arugula leaves
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spiral pasta according to package instructions plus one minute. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
- Prepare the pesto: Blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a tall jug using a stick blender until mostly smooth.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mix cooled pasta with the pesto and mayonnaise. Gently fold in bocconcini, cherry tomatoes, and arugula until evenly combined.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Garnish with small basil leaves if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Customize with protein like grilled chicken or shrimp for added heartiness. Chill before serving to enhance flavors.