Maya's Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad: A Delicious and Refreshing Summer Dish

This recipe for Maya's Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy pesto dressing coats the pasta perfectly, while cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and pine nuts add a pop of color and crunch. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a simple weeknight dinner. With a preparation time of just 20 minutes, it's also quick and easy to make. Give Maya's Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad a try and impress your friends and family with this delicious summer recipe.

Ingredients

• Pasta (such as fusilli or rotini)
• Basil leaves
• Pine nuts
• Cherry tomatoes
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic clove
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic clove, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until well combined.
3. While the blender is still running, slowly pour in the olive oil and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes.
5. Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta and tomatoes. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick toss and garnish with some fresh basil leaves and pine nuts.
8. Enjoy your refreshing and delicious Maya's Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad!

Interesting Facts