Description
This vibrant Pasta Salad with Pesto and Mozzarella is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and robust flavors. Picture al dente pasta coated in fragrant basil pesto, complemented by creamy mozzarella balls and juicy cherry tomatoes. Perfect for summer gatherings, this dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. Serve it chilled for a refreshing taste that transports you to an Italian terrace, making each bite a celebration of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with pesto sauce, tossing until evenly coated.
- Gently fold in mozzarella pearls and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss again for even distribution.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for an hour to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg