Delicious Vegan Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta Salad
Indulge in the flavors of this tantalizing vegan sun-dried tomato pesto pasta salad, bursting with the richness of pine nuts, fragrant basil, and sun-drenched tomatoes!
Introduction: Elevate your culinary experience with this vibrant vegan dish that effortlessly combines the classic allure of pesto with the intensified flavors of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a delightful side dish or a fulfilling lunch option!
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto: Harness the robust essence of sun-dried tomatoes, enriched through their natural drying process, by opting for those preserved in oil. The oil itself is a treasure trove of flavor, ideal for enhancing various dishes beyond measure.
Ingredients:
- Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil)
- Pine nuts
- Fresh basil
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Chilli flakes (optional)
Preparation: Combine all the ingredients in a food processor or blender until they amalgamate into a luscious pesto, exuding irresistible aromas and tastes.
Preparation of Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta:
- Choose your preferred pasta variety, be it fusilli, macaroni, or penne, and cook it according to the package instructions in salted water.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto by blending the tomatoes, pine nuts, basil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chilli flakes (if desired) until smooth. Gradually incorporate the olive oil until a cohesive texture is achieved.
- Once the pasta is al dente, reserve a portion of the cooking water before draining it.
- Return the drained pasta to the pan and add the reserved cooking water along with the prepared pesto. Mix thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the delectable pesto.
Serving Suggestions:
- Incorporate the pasta salad into a buddha bowl for a wholesome meal.
- Accompany it with a baked potato for a satisfying and balanced dish.
- Serve it as a delightful side at a barbecue gathering, adding a burst of flavor to the spread.
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal, perfect for on-the-go lunches or quick bites.
Storage: If preparing the salad ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, ensuring to allow it to reach room temperature before serving. If it becomes slightly dry, revitalize it by reheating in the microwave with a splash of water.
With its irresistible blend of flavors and versatile serving options, this vegan sun-dried tomato pesto pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of culinary delights
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Pasta Salad
4
servings5
minutes15
minutesIngredients
For the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (in oil)
1/4 cup pine nuts
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil
Chilli flakes, to taste (optional)For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (fusilli, macaroni, penne, etc.)
Salt, for cooking pastaAdditional:
Reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup)
Directions
- Prepare the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside. - Make the Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto:
In a food processor or blender, combine the sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, basil leaves, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and chilli flakes (if using).
Blend until the ingredients are finely chopped and well combined.
With the blender running, gradually drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture forms a smooth and creamy pesto. Adjust seasoning to taste. - Combine Pasta and Pesto:
Once the pasta is cooked, drained, and still warm, return it to the pot.
Add the reserved pasta water and the prepared sun-dried tomato pesto to the pasta.
Gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto. - Serve:
Transfer the pesto pasta salad to a serving dish.
Optionally, garnish with additional fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of pine nuts.
Serve warm or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, allow the pasta salad to come to room temperature, or gently reheat it in the microwave with a splash of water to refresh the flavors.
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