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Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas, Pine Nuts & Mozzarella Pearls Recipe

Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas, Pine Nuts & Mozzarella Pearls Recipe


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4.5 from 26 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Pesto Pasta Salad with Peas, Pine Nuts & Mozzarella Pearls is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of basil pesto, toasted pine nuts, and creamy mozzarella pearls creates a delicious harmony of textures and tastes.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces short pasta (such as fusilli or farfalle)

Other Ingredients:

  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 8 ounces mozzarella pearls
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  2. Prepare the Salad: Drain pasta and peas and rinse under cold water. In a large bowl, combine pasta, peas, pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice; toss until coated. Gently stir in pine nuts, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle Parmesan and fresh basil over the top. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
  • Use sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
  • Perfect for picnics and potlucks.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg