Pesto Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Brace yourself—this isn’t another boring, forgettable pasta salad. This one actually tastes like something, thanks to rich pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Every bite packs a punch with fresh basil, garlicky goodness, and a hint of Parmesan. It’s fresh, bold, and dangerously addictive. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make—because no one has time for complicated recipes. Serve it cold, warm, or straight from the mixing bowl (we won’t judge). Whether it’s for meal prep or a party, expect one thing: people will ask for the recipe. Ready to upgrade your pasta game? Let’s make it happen.
Pesto Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavor-packed pesto pasta salad with sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil. Perfect for quick lunches, gatherings, or eating straight from the bowl.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or whatever holds sauce well
- ½ cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade, we won’t judge
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped (oil-packed for extra flavor)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil because quality matters
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved (for freshness and color)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated (the real stuff, not the powder)
- ¼ cup pine nuts toasted (optional, but adds a nice crunch)
- ½ cup fresh spinach chopped (because green makes it healthy, right?)
- 1 garlic clove minced (adds that extra punch)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water—yes, rinse it.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat until golden. Try not to burn them (or yourself).
- Chop the sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and spinach while the pasta cools. Keep fingers intact.
- Whisk olive oil, pesto, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Or just shake it in a jar like a pro.
- Toss pasta, veggies, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and Parmesan in a large mixing bowl. Pour in the dressing and mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. More Parmesan? Always a good idea.
- Chill for 15 minutes (or eat immediately if patience isn’t your thing).
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Calcium: 14%
- Iron: 10%
- Vitamin C: 9%
- Potassium: 8%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber if you’re feeling healthy.
- Swap pine nuts for almonds if you’re out (or cheap).
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- Let it sit longer for an even better flavor boost.
- Store leftovers in the fridge—but don’t expect them to last long.
