Delicious American Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

This American twist on the classic Italian pesto pasta salad is a perfect dish for summer picnics, barbecues, or potlucks. The combination of fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and pasta tossed in a zesty pesto dressing will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pasta of choice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and toasted pine nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to make the pesto dressing.
4. Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
6. Garnish with additional basil leaves and cherry tomatoes before serving.

Interesting Facts