# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 10.6 oz short pasta (e.g., fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
02 - Salt, for boiling
→ Salad Mix
03 - 8.8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 7 oz mozzarella pearls
05 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
06 - 1.7 oz baby arugula or baby spinach (optional)
→ Pesto Dressing
07 - 2.8 oz fresh basil leaves
08 - 1.4 oz pine nuts (toasted, if desired)
09 - 4.1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 1.4 oz grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 1 garlic clove
12 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
14 - Fresh basil leaves
15 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
# Method:
01 - Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
02 - In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and half the olive oil. Blend until finely chopped. Drizzle in the remaining olive oil while blending until a smooth sauce forms. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
03 - In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, red onion (if using), and arugula or spinach (if using).
04 - Add the pesto and gently toss until all ingredients are well coated.
05 - Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately, or cover and chill for up to 4 hours before serving.
