Description
Pesto pasta salad with cherry tomatoes is a vibrant dish that embodies summer's essence in every bite. This easy-to-make salad features al dente fusilli pasta, fresh basil pesto, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a delightful burst of flavor. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches, this colorful salad not only looks stunning on the table but is also versatile enough for endless ingredient variations. Enjoy it chilled for a refreshing taste that will remind you of sunny days spent with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the fusilli pasta in salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto and olive oil; stir well.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil to the bowl; mix gently.
- Incorporate the cooled pasta and grated Parmesan cheese; toss until coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. - Substitute cherry tomatoes with roasted red peppers or olives for different flavors. - This salad can be made ahead of time; store it in an airtight container for up to three days.