Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad: Picnic Perfect

Picture yourself lounging on a checkered blanket, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees, and the sun casting a warm glow on your surroundings. The scene is set for a delightful picnic, and at the heart of it all is the star of the show – Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad. This recipe is the epitome of a sunny afternoon, bringing together the freshness of garden herbs and the comfort of creamy pasta.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fusilli pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup baby spinach leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup basil pesto
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, toasted pine nuts, baby spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the basil pesto and heavy cream until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the pasta salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Give the salad a gentle toss before serving and garnish with additional pine nuts and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is a perfect companion for any outdoor gathering. The combination of fresh ingredients and the indulgent creaminess of the pesto sauce creates a harmony of flavors that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Nutrition information: Calories: 380, Total Fat: 24g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Protein: 12g

Picture yourself taking the first bite of this creamy delight – the pasta perfectly coated in the vibrant green pesto, each ingredient playing its part to create a symphony of taste. Whether it’s a family picnic, a casual get-together, or simply a day out in nature, the Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad will elevate your experience and leave you craving more. So, gather your loved ones, spread that picnic blanket, and savor the magic of this picnic-perfect dish.