Introducing a delectable creation from lovewithrecipes.com: Pesto Pasta Salad, a delightful dish that perfectly balances simplicity with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or snack. With a prep time of just 20 minutes, this recipe falls under the category of “< 30 Mins," making it perfect for busy schedules or last-minute meal plans. Designed with beginners in mind, this recipe is easy to follow yet yields impressive results, showcasing the magic of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
Let’s delve into the culinary journey of crafting this Pesto Pasta Salad. Begin by assembling the ingredients: garlic, cilantro leaves, salt, black pepper, extra virgin olive oil, lime juice, pasta, Parmesan cheese, and cherry tomatoes. These simple yet flavorful components come together harmoniously to create a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
To start, gather all the ingredients for the pesto sauce, except for the olive oil and lime juice, into a food processor. This includes the aromatic garlic, vibrant cilantro leaves, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Pulse these ingredients until they form a rough paste, releasing their fragrant oils and flavors.
Next, it’s time to infuse the pesto with richness and brightness. Gradually pulse in the extra virgin olive oil, allowing it to emulsify with the herbaceous mixture, while adding a refreshing hint of lime juice to brighten the flavors. The result is a luscious, vibrant pesto sauce that’s bursting with freshness and complexity.
Once the pesto sauce is prepared, it’s time to marry it with the pasta. Cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions until al dente, then allow it to cool slightly. Toss the cooked and cooled pasta with the prepared pesto sauce, ensuring that each strand is coated in the aromatic goodness.
To elevate the flavor profile even further, add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta and pesto mixture. The nuttiness of the Parmesan adds a savory depth that complements the herbaceousness of the pesto, creating a symphony of flavors with each bite.
But we’re not done yet! To add a burst of freshness and texture, fold in halved cherry tomatoes, which provide a juicy sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. Scatter some of these vibrant tomatoes over the top of the salad for a visually stunning presentation that’s as enticing as it is delicious.
And there you have it – Pesto Pasta Salad, a culinary masterpiece that’s ready to be savored and shared. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or a flavorful side dish, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and effortless charm.
Nutritionally, this Pesto Pasta Salad offers a balance of macronutrients and is packed with wholesome ingredients. With a total calorie count of 1240.1, this dish provides sustained energy to fuel your day. The moderate fat content of 55.6 grams, primarily derived from the heart-healthy olive oil and Parmesan cheese, adds richness and satiety without compromising on nutrition. Saturated fat content is kept in check at 8.3 grams, ensuring a balanced profile.
Cholesterol content is minimal, making this dish suitable for those following a cholesterol-conscious diet. Meanwhile, the sodium content of 1181.9 milligrams adds savory depth to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile. Carbohydrates, totaling 158.4 grams, provide a substantial source of energy, while dietary fiber content of 10.3 grams supports digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness.
Sugar content is kept low at just 6 grams, ensuring that the dish remains satisfying without being overly sweet. Finally, protein content is notable at 29.6 grams, making this Pesto Pasta Salad a satisfying and well-rounded meal option.
In terms of serving size and yield, this recipe can be adjusted according to personal preference and the number of servings required. Whether prepared for a solo lunch or shared among friends and family, this versatile dish can easily accommodate varying portion sizes.
With its easy-to-follow instructions, vibrant flavors, and wholesome ingredients, Pesto Pasta Salad is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the love with each delicious bite of this delightful dish!
