Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad: Picnic Ready
Picture this: a sun-dappled meadow, a checkered blanket spread under the open sky, and laughter echoing through the air. What could be more perfect than a delightful picnic with loved ones? And at the heart of this idyllic scene is our star of the day – Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad. A harmonious blend of flavors and textures, this salad is the epitome of picnic perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/3 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup prepared pesto sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, pine nuts, and basil leaves.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce and heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the pasta and toss to coat everything evenly. If needed, add more pesto or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and gently toss again. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the creamy pesto pasta salad in your favorite picnic spot and enjoy the harmony of flavors with your loved ones.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Yields: 4 servings
Creamy, refreshing, and bursting with summer goodness, this Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is picnic perfection.
Nutrition information: Calories: 380 | Total Fat: 22g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 11g
Picture yourself indulging in forkfuls of creamy pasta, the gentle breeze carrying laughter and the promise of beautiful memories. As you relish the medley of flavors dancing on your palate – the bright burst of cherry tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the satisfying crunch of pine nuts – you realize that this salad is more than just food. It’s a celebration of togetherness, of simple joys, and of the moments that truly matter. So, pack your picnic basket, gather your favorite people, and let this Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad elevate your picnic experience into something truly magical.