Pasta Pesto Salad

Ingredients

• •8 oz fresh pasta (fusilli or penne)
• •2 cups fresh basil leaves
• •1/4 cup pine nuts
• •1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •2 cloves garlic
• •1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• •Salt and pepper to taste
• •1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• •1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fresh pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.

3. 3

   With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the homemade pesto. Toss until the pasta is well coated.

5. 5

   Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pasta and gently mix to combine.

6. 6

   If desired, drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving for added flavor.

7. 7

   Serve the pasta pesto salad warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!