Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. This delightful salad features al dente pasta coated in a rich, herbaceous pesto sauce, complemented by the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite and impress your guests with this colorful and delicious recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and heavy cream until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the creamy sauce over and toss gently until well coated.
- Season with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (180g)
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Substitute half-and-half for a lighter option. Add grilled chicken or roasted veggies for extra protein or flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.