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Pesto Pasta Salad with a Kick on a plate

Pesto Pasta Salad with a Kick

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked pasta your choice of shape
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/2 cup spicy pesto sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta to package directions; drain and cool.
  2. Meanwhile, toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium 3-4 minutes until golden; set aside.
  3. Combine pasta, tomatoes, and pine nuts in a large bowl.
  4. Add spicy pesto.
  5. Sprinkle in pepper flakes.
  6. Toss to coat evenly.
  7. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Garnish with optional basil.
  9. Refrigerate at least 15 minutes to blend flavors.
  10. Serve cold.

Notes

You can make your own spicy pesto by blending fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. This salad makes a great lunch or side dish for BBQs and picnics!