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Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together al dente pasta, homemade pesto, and crisp vegetables, all highlighted by a zesty lemon kick. Perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners, this colorful salad is both easy to prepare and visually appealing. Serve it as a side dish or enhance it with your favorite protein for a satisfying main course that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz short pasta (fusilli or penne)
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 2 cups baby spinach

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
  3. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and spinach. Add pesto sauce and toss to coat.
  4. Squeeze lemon juice into the salad and adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
  • Author: Adriana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 41g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Customize by adding grilled chicken or turkey for extra protein. Swap out vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.