Go Back
–+ servings
Ina Garten Pesto Pasta Salad

Ina Garten Pesto Pasta Salad that's Fast and Fabulous

This Ina Garten Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish, perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Fusilli or Bow-Tie Pasta Choose high-quality pasta for the best texture and flavor.
For the Pesto Sauce
  • 1 cup Pesto Use either store-bought or homemade.
  • 1.5 cups Fresh Spinach Fresh spinach elevates the nutrition level.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice This brightens the dish.
  • 0.5 cup Mayonnaise Adds creaminess.
For the Mix-ins
  • 0.5 cup Chopped Walnuts or Pine Nuts Choose fresh, raw nuts.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Basil Essential for pesto flavor.
  • 1 clove Garlic Enhances overall flavor.
  • 0.5 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds a sharp depth.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 cup Thawed Frozen Peas Adds color and sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Enhances texture.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Food Processor
  • large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a food processor, combine pesto, spinach, lemon juice, and mayonnaise. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, pour pesto sauce over cooled pasta. Fold in Parmesan, peas, and walnuts or pine nuts.
  4. Mix thoroughly and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Transfer to a serving bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 10gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Using high-quality ingredients and chilling well enhances the flavor of this pasta salad.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!