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Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad

Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad: A Fresh, Easy Summer Delight

Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad combines fresh ingredients into a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Pesto Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Feel free to use more mayonnaise if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon Shallot Mild onion flavor; can substitute with red or green onions.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest
  • 1/3 cup Reserved Pasta Water Essential for dressing consistency.
For the Salad
  • 12 ounces Cavatappi Pasta Any pasta shape can be used.
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Halved; can use grape tomatoes or diced bell peppers.
  • 6 slices Crispy Bacon Can omit for vegetarian or use smoked paprika.
  • 4 cups Arugula Spinach or kale can be substitutes.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for vegan option.
  • 8 ounces Ciliegini Mozzarella Can use diced mozzarella or feta.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Medium Bowl
  • Whisk
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Reserve 1/3 cup of pasta water, drain pasta, and cool under cold running water.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, mayonnaise, sour cream, shallot, reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the dressing until well coated. Fold in cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon, arugula, parmesan cheese, and ciliegini mozzarella.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, consume within three days. Use reserved pasta water for dressing consistency.

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