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Vibrant Antipasto Pesto Pasta Salad for Perfect Summer Picnics

Enjoy a delightful Antipasto Pesto Pasta Salad bursting with fresh flavors, perfect for summer picnics.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Spiral Pasta Use Barilla for optimal texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavor.
For the Pesto
  • 1/3 cup Pine Nuts Toast lightly to enhance flavor.
  • 2 cups Basil Leaves Fresh is key for fragrant taste.
  • 1 clove Garlic Freshly crushed is best.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated for best texture.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Choose high-quality extra virgin.
For the Salad
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Opt for a good quality brand like Hellmann's.
  • 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Cut in half for easy eating.
  • 8 ounces Bocconcini Drain and cut into quarters.
  • 4 cups Arugula Fold in just before serving.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Adds a kick to the salad.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Leaves For garnish.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • large pot
  • Food Processor
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spiral pasta according to package instructions.
  3. In a food processor, combine cooled pine nuts, basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Pulse until finely chopped.
  4. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while the processor runs until smooth and creamy.
  5. Fold in mayonnaise to achieve desired richness for the pesto.
  6. Slice cherry tomatoes in half and drain bocconcini before cutting into quarters.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with pesto, and toss to coat evenly.
  8. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and fold in the cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and arugula just before serving.
  9. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Notes

Allow the spiral pasta to cool completely after cooking. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Prepare up to 8 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator.