Looking for a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Pesto Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes! Bursting with vibrant colors and rich Italian flavors, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a picnic, or simply craving a quick and satisfying meal, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress. With just 25 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up a deliciously creamy pasta salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to dive into the flavors of Italy? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta (penne or rotini) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sun-dried tomatoes. If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them and chop them into small pieces. If using dried sun-dried tomatoes, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to rehydrate, then chop.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Stir well to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This will also help prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl with the pesto mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the pesto and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the Parmesan cheese and sun-dried tomatoes can add saltiness, so taste before adding too much salt.
- For best flavor, let the pasta salad sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate it for up to an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the pesto pasta salad in bowls or on a platter, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh spinach leaves if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: For this recipe, penne or rotini works best as their shapes hold onto the pesto and other ingredients beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to ensure it maintains a firm texture, especially since it will be tossed with other ingredients.
- Enhance the Flavor: If you want an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto mixture for a spicy twist.
- Customize Your Greens: While spinach is a fantastic choice, feel free to mix in other greens like arugula or kale for added texture and nutrition.
- Chill for Best Results: Allowing the pasta salad to sit for at least 10 minutes (or refrigerating it for up to an hour) helps the flavors meld together, making every bite even more delicious.
- Garnish and Serve: Don’t forget to sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It adds a nice finishing touch and enhances the dish's presentation!
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect option for meal prep or gatherings. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
