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Chilled Pesto Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad combines cooked rotini tossed in bright, oily pesto, finished with fresh vegetables for added crunch. The dish is served cold, with a slick, herbaceous coating on each strand and a refreshing, casual vibe perfect for hot days. Its loose, messy assembly makes it ideal for quick, no-fuss meals or picnics.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces rotini pasta or farfalle, cooked al dente
  • 1/2 cup store-bought pesto or homemade pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra for drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse the noodles under cold water until chilled and no longer steaming, then set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, scoop out the pesto and drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice. Stir until the pesto is smooth and slightly loosened, creating a glossy, vibrant green sauce.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss gently, scraping the pesto over all the noodles. Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly coat each strand with the bright green sauce, watching the pesto cling and spread as you mix.
  4. Halve the cherry tomatoes and add them to the pasta, giving everything a gentle toss to distribute the fresh bursts of flavor and color throughout the dish.
  5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to evenly distribute the cheese and seasoning.
  6. Finish by drizzling a little extra olive oil over the salad for sheen, then give it one final gentle toss. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and best texture, or chill in the fridge if making ahead.