Garden Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad
Garden Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is the epitome of a delightful summer dish. Bursting with vibrant flavors and colors, this recipe combines the goodness of fresh garden produce with the rich, aromatic taste of pesto, creating a harmonious blend that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Picture this: a sunny afternoon, a light breeze rustling through the leaves, and a table set with a bowl of this tantalizing pasta salad. The first bite takes you on a journey through the garden, with the freshness of just-picked basil, the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes, and the crunch of perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a luscious, homemade pesto sauce. Every mouthful is a symphony of flavors, a celebration of summer’s bounty.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound pasta, such as fusilli or penne
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts. Pulse until coarsely chopped.
- With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and black olives.
- Pour the pesto sauce over the pasta and toss until everything is well coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, garnish with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
A refreshing pasta salad featuring garden-fresh ingredients and a homemade basil pesto sauce.
Nutritional information: Calories: 450, Fat: 22g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Protein: 12g
Garden Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of summer, a tribute to the flavors of the garden, and a testament to the joy of simple, delicious food. Whether served as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light, satisfying dinner, this pasta salad will undoubtedly become a favorite in your repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the freshness of the season, and indulge in the culinary delight that is Garden Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad.
