Description
Pesto Pasta Salad with Pine Nuts is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines al dente pasta tossed in a rich homemade pesto, complemented by the satisfying crunch of toasted pine nuts. Perfect for warm evenings or gatherings, this salad transports you to the Italian countryside with every bite. Its stunning colors and flavors make it a showstopper at any table, while its simplicity ensures even novice cooks can shine in the kitchen. Enjoy this delightful dish chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal option for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a food processor, blend basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan until finely chopped. While blending, gradually drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with the pesto. Toss gently to coat.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with extra pine nuts and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg