Indulge in the symphony of flavors with our tantalizing Cold Pesto Pasta Salad, a refreshing and vibrant dish that will transport your taste buds to a Mediterranean paradise. This delectable salad combines the zesty freshness of basil pesto with the al dente bite of perfectly cooked pasta, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Tossed with sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a hint of garlic, this salad bursts with a symphony of colors and aromas. Whether you're seeking a light and flavorful lunch option, a delightful side dish for your next gathering, or a wholesome vegetarian meal, our Cold Pesto Pasta Salad has something for everyone. Dive into this culinary masterpiece and experience a taste of summer in every bite.
In addition to the classic Cold Pesto Pasta Salad, this article offers a delightful array of variations to suit diverse tastes and preferences. Craving a creamy and indulgent treat? Try the irresistible Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad, where a velvety blend of pesto and cream sauce coats each strand of pasta, creating a luscious and decadent dish. For a vibrant and tangy twist, the Lemon Pesto Pasta Salad bursts with the brightness of lemon and fresh herbs, offering a refreshing and zesty alternative. If you're seeking a hearty and protein-packed option, the Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad incorporates tender grilled chicken, adding a satisfying savory element to the salad. And for those with a passion for bold and spicy flavors, the Spicy Pesto Pasta Salad delivers a fiery kick with the addition of chili flakes and red pepper flakes, igniting your taste buds with each bite.
GARDEN PESTO PASTA SALAD
My family and I live on a homestead in the Missouri Ozarks and produce much of our own food. In the summer, when the garden is bursting with fresh vegetables and it's too hot to cook, I like to use the season's veggies for pasta salads and other cool meals. -Sarah Mathews, Ava, Missouri
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 15m
Yield 10 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water and drain well., Meanwhile, whisk together pesto, vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in oil until blended., Combine vegetables and pasta. Drizzle with pesto dressing; toss to coat. Refrigerate, covered, until cold, about 1 hour. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 217 calories, Fat 11g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 3mg cholesterol, Sodium 339mg sodium, Carbohydrate 23g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
PESTO PASTA SALAD
Provided by Food Network
Time 15m
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients for pesto sauce in food processor, except olive oil and lime juice. Pulse to a rough paste, then pulse in olive oil and lime juice. Toss with cooked, cooled pasta and Parmesan. Fold in 3 chopped tomatoes, and scatter 4th tomato over top of pasta.
FABULOUS PESTO PASTA SALAD
This chilled pasta salad is perfect as a side dish or a main course. Serve with warm garlic bread and the perfect wine!
Provided by ERILEY
Categories Salad 100+ Pasta Salad Recipes Farfalle Pasta Salad Recipes
Time 1h30m
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 20
Steps:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, pepper, onion powder, mustard, garlic, basil, oregano, cilantro, hot pepper sauce, red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Add the tomatoes, green onions and olives to the bowl, and stir to coat. Refrigerate.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the pasta, and cook for 7 minutes, or until tender. Drain, and rinse with cold water to cool. Add pasta to the bowl of dressing, and mix well. Top with mozzarella cheese and pine nuts. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 505.5 calories, Carbohydrate 50.7 g, Cholesterol 20 mg, Fat 26.7 g, Fiber 3.7 g, Protein 18.9 g, SaturatedFat 6.6 g, Sodium 730.6 mg, Sugar 6 g
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh basil, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, for the best flavor.
- If you don't have a food processor, you can chop the basil and nuts by hand.
- Be sure to taste the pesto before adding it to the pasta salad, and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- For a more flavorful pasta salad, use a variety of vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
- If you're short on time, you can use store-bought pesto instead of making your own.
Conclusion:
Cold pesto pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With its bright flavors and vibrant colors, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit at your next potluck or barbecue.
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