Description
Summer Pesto Pasta Salad (Gluten Free) is your go-to dish for sunny days and casual gatherings. This vibrant salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile, making it an ideal side for barbecues or a satisfying meal on its own. With a creamy basil pesto dressing, juicy tomatoes, crunchy walnuts, and a sprinkle of cheese, every bite bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s quick to prepare in just about 30 minutes! Enjoy this delightful gluten-free salad chilled for the best taste experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz gluten-free short pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 1 pint grape tomatoes
- 1 cup walnuts (unsalted)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (or Asiago/Romano)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup jarred basil pesto
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the gluten-free pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Halve the grape tomatoes and chop the walnuts if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, basil pesto, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, chopped walnuts, and grated cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg