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Cold Pesto Pasta Salad

A bright, herbaceous pasta salad loaded with fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. Perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or light summer dinners.

Total time
20 min
Servings
4
Calories
520
Protein
18g
Cold Pesto Pasta Salad
lightfreshsimpleitalianvegetarianvegetariancreamytender

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook until al dente, ~10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.

  2. Step 2

    Combine basil, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy.

  3. Step 3

    Transfer cooled pasta to a large bowl. Pour pesto over and toss until every strand is coated.

  4. Step 4

    Add cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

  5. Step 5

    Chill until ready to serve, or serve at room temperature within 2 hours.

Tools you’ll need

  • large pot
  • colander
  • food processor
  • large mixing bowl
  • spoon or tongs

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