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# Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight

This vibrant pesto pasta salad combines fresh basil, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella for a refreshing and flavorful dish. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight meal, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne pasta cooked al dente
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup fresh sweet basil tightly packed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella cubed
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

Cook the Pasta:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside in a large bowl.
Toast the Pine Nuts:
  1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add pine nuts and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool.
Make the Pesto:
  1. In a blender or food processor, combine toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and fresh basil.
  2. Blend until smooth, gradually drizzling in olive oil.
  3. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Salad:
  1. Toss the cooked pasta with the prepared pesto until evenly coated.
  2. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cubed mozzarella, gently folding them into the salad.
  3. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve and Enjoy:
  1. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves.
  2. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a chilled salad.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan and high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best in pasta salads.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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Let us know how it was!