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Basil Pesto Pasta Salad

Quick Basil Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz fusilli or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved if large
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Extra pine nuts and basil leaves for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, 3 to 4 minutes. In a food processor, blend the basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook the pasta in the boiling water until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water, and spread on a baking sheet to cool.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Add a splash of olive oil or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  4. Transfer to a serving dish. Top with toasted pine nuts, fresh basil, and extra Parmesan. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

If the pesto feels thick, thin it with a tablespoon of warm water or a little more olive oil. Reserve a few fresh basil leaves to garnish right before serving, so they stay vibrant and unwilted.