Looking for a quick and easy dish to whip up this summer? Look no further than this delicious pesto pasta salad! This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Plus, it's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying choice.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the basil pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and fresh basil. Pour the pesto dressing over the top and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips:
- For an extra burst of flavor, try using a homemade basil pesto instead of store-bought.
- If you're short on time, you can use a pre-made pesto sauce and skip the step of making your own dressing.
- Feel free to add in any additional vegetables or protein sources that you have on hand, such as grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
