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Berry Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 61 reviews

A fresh and vibrant Berry Pesto Pasta Salad that combines tangy pesto dressing with sweet berries, peppery arugula, and creamy mozzarella for a perfect 25-minute light meal or side dish to serve at gatherings or as a healthy lunch option.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 12 ounces Delallo Shellbow Pasta
  • 3 cups baby arugula
  • 1 cup diced strawberries
  • 1 cup blackberries
  • 1/2 cup mini fresh mozzarella balls
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 – 4 tablespoons Delallo Simply Pesto Traditional Basil
  • 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Optional Topping

  • Balsamic glaze to drizzle on top of the salad (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the shellbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool it to room temperature, or rinse under cold water if short on time. Transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl.
  2. Add Fresh Ingredients: To the cooled pasta, add the baby arugula, diced strawberries, blackberries, mini mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil. Mix gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
  3. Prepare and Add Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto, champagne vinegar, and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth. Pour this dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything gently until all components are well coated with the pesto dressing.
  4. Season and Adjust: Taste the salad and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. If the salad appears dry, add an additional tablespoon of pesto to enhance moisture and flavor.
  5. Finish and Serve: Just before serving, drizzle balsamic glaze over the top to add a sweet and tangy finish. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

  • Rinsing pasta with cold water stops the cooking process and cools it quickly, which is essential for pasta salad.
  • Fresh seasonal berries can be substituted, such as blueberries or raspberries.
  • Adjust pesto quantity depending on your preference for creaminess and flavor intensity.
  • Balsamic glaze is optional but highly recommended to elevate the salad’s taste.
  • This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead; just add the balsamic glaze right before serving.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/berry-pesto-pasta-salad-recipe/