Picnic Perfection: Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto

Indulge in the flavors of summer with this delightful Picnic Perfection: Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto. Created by the talented Elizabeth Rodriguez, this recipe is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together in a symphony of taste and texture.

Picture yourself on a sunny afternoon, laying out a blanket in the park, surrounded by laughter and the rustling of leaves. Now, imagine opening your picnic basket to reveal this stunning pasta salad that not only looks beautiful but is a burst of summer on your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tbsp pesto sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and toasted pine nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and pesto sauce. Pour it over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again gently.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Nutrition Information: Each serving contains approximately 320 calories.

So, the next time you plan a picnic or a gathering with friends, consider bringing this Picnic Perfection: Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty!