Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta with a fresh and herbaceous pesto sauce. It's a perfect option for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing summer side dish.

Ingredients:

For the pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (or substitute with walnuts or almonds)
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta salad:

• 8 ounces pasta (such as fusilli, rotini, or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the ingredients are well blended.
3. While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth and creamy pesto sauce forms. If needed, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and blend again.
4. Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, and diced red onion.
6. Pour the pesto sauce over the pasta and vegetables. Toss well to coat everything evenly with the pesto.
7. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the pasta salad for an extra tangy kick.
8. Garnish the pesto pasta salad with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and aroma.
9. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Serve the pesto pasta salad chilled and enjoy!

This pesto pasta salad is versatile, and you can customize it by adding additional ingredients such as grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or sun-dried tomatoes. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.