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Basil Pesto Gemelli Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Small skillet
  • Large mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces gemelli pasta
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gemelli pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking.
  • While the pasta cooks, place the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 3 to 4 minutes, shaking the pan often, until they turn light golden. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto and olive oil. Stir until the pesto loosens slightly and becomes easier to coat the pasta.
  • Add the cooled gemelli to the bowl with the pesto. Toss until every piece is evenly coated.
  • Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then toss once more.

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving so the pesto sets and the flavors come together. If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil or a little extra pesto right before serving. The pine nuts stay crunchiest when added just before the final toss rather than earlier.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large pot, Colander, Small skillet, Large mixing bowl