Tender pasta tossed with mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto for a vibrant, fresh meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 10 ounces short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
02 - Salt, for boiling water
→ Vegetables & Cheese
03 - 9 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 7 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and halved
05 - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
→ Pesto Dressing
06 - 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
07 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
08 - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
09 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
10 - Fresh basil leaves, torn
11 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
02 - In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion if using.
03 - Whisk pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
04 - Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all components evenly.
05 - Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with torn fresh basil and toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve immediately or chill up to 2 hours before serving.
