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pesto pasta salad

Easy Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad

A bright and flavorful pasta salad coated in creamy basil pesto with fresh vegetables and cheese. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and easy family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Base
  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • ½ cup black olives sliced
  • Filling
  • ½ cup mozzarella pearls
  • ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
  • Topping
  • ½ cup basil pesto
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water.
  2. Chop tomatoes, cucumber, and onion while pasta cools.
  3. Whisk pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Combine pasta, vegetables, mozzarella, and olives in a large bowl.
  5. Pour pesto dressing over the salad and toss gently.
  6. Sprinkle parmesan, pine nuts, and basil on top before serving.

Notes

  • Chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
  • Stir gently to keep ingredients intact.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator.