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Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad

A quick and delicious pasta salad that combines hearty pasta with vibrant greens, perfect for any holiday occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz pasta (preferably rotini or penne) For maximum sauce-hugging capabilities
  • 1 cup fresh basil pesto homemade or store-bought
Vegetables and Garnishes
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls because cheese is always a good idea
  • ½ cup sliced black olives
  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers red, green, or both for colorful pizzazz
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, for topping optional

Method
 

Cooking Pasta
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and add pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Prepare Pasta
  1. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking.
Mix Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, and bell peppers.
  2. Toss gently to combine.
Season and Chill
  1. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste and toss again.
  2. Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
Serve
  1. Serve chilled or at room temperature and garnish with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

Feel free to add arugula or spinach for extra greens. This salad can be served warm as well.