Elevate Your Meal: Pasta Salad with Pesto
Are you searching for a vibrant and refreshing dish to brighten up your dining experience? Look no further than our delightful Pasta Salad with Pesto recipe! Bursting with colorful produce, fragrant herbs, and creamy pesto sauce, this salad is a celebration of fresh flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a picnic in the park, or simply craving a light and satisfying meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Get ready to elevate your culinary game with this irresistible recipe!
Ingredients
Produce
- 2 cups Baby spinach, fresh
- 2 cups Cherry tomatoes
- 3 cups Grapes, red
- 7 Green onions
- 2 cups Herbs, fresh green
Pasta & Grains
- 1 lb Bowtie pasta
Baking & Spices
- Freshly ground Pepper
- Salt
Oils & Vinegars
- 1 cup Olive oil
Nuts & Seeds
- 1 cup Pine nuts
Dairy
- 1 cup Parmigianno reggiano or pecorino romano
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the baby spinach, cherry tomatoes (halved), red grapes, chopped green onions, and fresh herbs. Toss gently to mix.
- In a small skillet, toast the pine nuts over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let them cool.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the toasted pine nuts, olive oil, grated Parmigianno reggiano or pecorino romano cheese, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
- Pour the pesto sauce over the prepared salad ingredients in the mixing bowl. Toss gently until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the pesto.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, garnish the pasta salad with additional freshly grated cheese, pine nuts, and fresh herbs for a vibrant finishing touch.
- Enjoy your Pasta Salad with Pesto as a refreshing appetizer, side dish, or main course!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Protein Addition: For added protein, you can toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu cubes to make this salad more substantial.
- Vegetarian Option: This pasta salad is naturally vegetarian-friendly. You can also make it vegan by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free pasta for the bowtie pasta to make this salad gluten-free.
- Customizable Veggies: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado for added color and flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make the pesto sauce ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the pesto sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good stir before using.
Q: How long will the pasta salad keep in the refrigerator? A: This Pasta Salad with Pesto will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Q: Can I use different nuts for the pesto sauce? A: Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with walnuts, almonds, or even cashews for a different flavor profile. Toast them in the same way before blending.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version of this Pasta Salad with Pesto, substitute the bowtie pasta with cooked and cooled cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. Use a keto-friendly cheese such as Parmesan or Asiago, and skip the grapes to reduce the carb content. You can also add extra low-carb vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado for added flavor and texture.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version, follow the instructions for the keto version and omit the grapes entirely. You can also reduce the amount of pasta or use a low-carb pasta alternative such as shirataki noodles or spaghetti squash.
In conclusion, our Pasta Salad with Pesto is a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a satisfying main course, this salad is a versatile addition to any meal. With its colorful array of produce, creamy pesto sauce, and tender pasta, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of culinary bliss with this irresistible pasta salad!
