Garlicky Pesto Pasta Salad
Garlicky pesto pasta salad combines fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan with tender orzo and cherry tomatoes for a vibrant, savory dish perfect for picnics or light lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the packed basil, garlic, raw pine nuts, and olive oil and puree until a uniform sauce results.
- Scrape the mixture into a bowl and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orzo until tender.
- Drain the orzo well, rinse, drain again, and place in a large bowl.
- Toss the cooked orzo with a couple of tablespoons of the reserved pesto dressing, or more to taste.
- Reserve any leftover pesto for another use.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts to the salad.
- Toss with more pesto dressing and black pepper to taste.
- Scatter with fresh chopped basil before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier pesto, consider adding a touch of Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seeds for the pine nuts. Make sure to use fresh basil for the best flavor, and feel free to adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. If you have it on hand, adding a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Garlicky Pesto Pasta Salad is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with Lemony New Potatoes or a side of grilled vegetables for a more substantial meal. For an extra flavor boost, drizzle some Yogurt Parsley Sauce over the top before serving. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan for a finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. This dish is also great served cold, making it perfect for meal prep or picnics.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garlicky Pesto Pasta Salad contains roughly 621 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 66g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! This salad can easily be enhanced with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein. Just toss in your choice of protein after mixing the salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).