Basil pesto pasta salad recipe

Pasta is one of the most adaptable foodstuffs in the world. There are hundreds of variations, some of them are hot while others are chilly. Keeping this recipe basic allows the quality components to shine through. This basil pesto pasta salad is a delicious cooled pasta dish that’s perfect for a midday meal or a side for your weekend braai. A vegan or vegetarian variation may be prepared as well.

Basil pesto pasta salad tips

Simply replace the mayonnaise in your pasta salad with your favourite vegan replacement, and you’ve got yourself a plant-based lunch. Additional protein may be added by using shredded chicken breast that was previously cooked and stored in the refrigerator. To get the most flavour out of sugar beans, we recommend pan-frying them in olive oil, salt, and black pepper. The pasta is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also very functional, since it is stuffed with of healthy beans and nuts.

This basil pesto pasta is perfect as a side dish during a braai, or as a fast weekday lunch.

Basil pesto pasta salad recipe

Basil pesto pasta salad recipe

Recipe by Msi Muzi Mathebula

Course: Main, Sides

Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 2 servings

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1kg pasta

  • 250g rocket leaves

  • 150g basil leaves

  • 100g basil pesto

  • 100g plan mayo

  • 80g mixed seeds

  • 80g cooked sugar beans

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method

  • Cook the pasta according to instructions on the package, making sure the water is salted. Once cooked, save half a cup of pasta water, drain the rest and rinse with cold water. Shake out any excess water.
  • Place pasta in a large bowl and stir in the pesto and mayo. Fold in rocket leaves, basil pesto and sugar beans . Season to taste with salt and pepper add seeds .
  • Before serving, keep covered and mix well before plating.
  • Keeps in fridge for up to 1 week.

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