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Simple Pasta Salad with Basil Pesto

This pasta salad combines al dente pasta with fresh vegetables and a vibrant basil pesto sauce. It features a mix of crunchy vegetables and tender pasta coated in fragrant herb sauce, resulting in a colorful and textured dish suitable for serving chilled or at room temperature.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini) uncooked
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, chopped
  • 0.5 cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Strainer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it's just tender and slightly firm to the bite. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta down.
  2. While the pasta cooks, chop your mixed vegetables into bite-sized pieces and prepare your garlic by mincing it finely. This will add flavor and texture to the salad.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and chopped vegetables. Pour in the basil pesto and use a spatula to gently fold everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the vibrant green sauce.
  4. Add the minced garlic and drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently to distribute the garlic and oil throughout the salad, enhancing the aroma and flavor.
  5. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as desired. Continue to toss until all ingredients are well combined and coated.
  6. Serve the pasta salad immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. The dish is colorful, with a glossy pesto coating, and has a satisfying crunch from the vegetables with tender pasta.

Notes

For added protein, stir in some cooked chicken or mozzarella cheese. Use fresh herbs for an even more vibrant flavor.