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classic basil pesto pasta salad recipe - Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Salad served in a white bowl overhead view
Chloe

Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Salad

classic basil pesto pasta salad recipe made easy at home. A vibrant, herby pasta salad bursting with fresh basil pesto, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella—
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves packed
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted if desired
  • 2 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese vegetarian if needed
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt to taste
For the Salad
  • 1 pound fusilli (or other short pasta) dry
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (ciliegine) drained
  • 2 cups baby arugula washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons pine nuts for garnish, toasted
  • to taste fresh basil leaves for garnish

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fusilli according to package directions until al dente. Drain, then rinse under cold water until cool to the touch. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until finely chopped. With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until a smooth, emulsified pesto forms. Scrape down sides as needed.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the pesto until every piece is well coated. Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls.
  4. Just before serving, fold in the baby arugula until evenly distributed. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves.