Description
A fresh and vibrant pasta salad with rotini, grape tomatoes, mini mozzarella, and a delicious pesto dressing, perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 16 ounces grape tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- ⅓ cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- 8 ounces mini mozzarella pearls
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, torn for garnish
- Optional:
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or lemon juice for added tang
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside to cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped grape tomatoes, pesto, fresh parsley, mini mozzarella pearls, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to combine.
- Add the Red Onion: Stir in the chopped red onion and toss again until everything is evenly mixed.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you want a little extra tang, drizzle in 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil leaves. You can also drizzle a little more pesto on top for extra flavor. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or a light meal.
Notes
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for some extra protein.
- Veggie Add-ins: You can also toss in some sliced cucumber, olives, or roasted red peppers for extra texture and flavor.
- Make It Creamy: If you like a creamier texture, mix in a little Greek yogurt or sour cream with the pesto.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
