Just Right Pesto Pasta Salad

Bursting with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, the "Just Right Pesto Pasta Salad" is the perfect dish for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks. This irresistible recipe combines tender al dente penne pasta with a creamy basil pesto dressing, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and peppery baby spinach. Fresh mozzarella pearls add a lush creaminess, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan brings savory depth. For a nutty, buttery finish, optional toasted pine nuts can be added, taking this pasta salad to a whole new level. Ready in just 25 minutes, this quick and easy salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal make-ahead option. Whether you're looking for a colorful side dish or a light, satisfying entrée, this pesto pasta salad hits all the right notes.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 oz Penne pasta
• 1 cup Basil pesto
• 1.5 cups Cherry tomatoes
• 1 Cucumber
• 8 oz Fresh mozzarella pearls
• 2 cups Baby spinach
• 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.25 cup Pine nuts (optional)
• 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, prep the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Peel and dice the cucumber into small chunks. Set both aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, fresh mozzarella pearls, and baby spinach.

Step 4

In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Step 5

Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 6

If desired, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant. Let cool slightly before adding them to the salad.

Step 7

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and optional toasted pine nuts over the pasta salad. Toss lightly to distribute.

Step 8

Serve immediately at room temperature, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to serve chilled. Enjoy your 'Just Right Pesto Pasta Salad'!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1322.4 grams (1322.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3494

Total Fat 205.10g	263%
Saturated Fat 53.20g	266%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 199mg	66%
Sodium 3820mg	166%
Total Carbohydrate 296.90g	108%
Dietary Fiber 18.30g	65%
Total Sugars 29.10g
Protein 126.50g	253%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 2013mg	155%
Iron 22mg	120%
Potassium 2930mg	62%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 52.2%

Protein: 14.3%

Carbs: 33.6%