Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad
This creamy pesto and roasted red pepper pasta salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a summer picnic or potluck. The roasted red peppers add a smoky sweetness to the dish, while the goat cheese and pine nuts add a creamy and nutty texture. The pesto sauce brings it all together with its herby flavor. The recipe is simple to follow and can be made in under 30 minutes.
The inspiration for this recipe came to me on a hot summer day when I was looking for a light and refreshing meal. I had some leftover roasted red peppers in the fridge, and I thought they would be the perfect addition to a pasta salad. I also had some pesto sauce on hand, and I knew that the two flavors would complement each other perfectly. I added some crumbled goat cheese and pine nuts for extra flavor and texture, and the result was a delicious and satisfying dish. I've been making this pasta salad for years now, and it's always a hit with my friends and family.
Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad Creamy Pesto and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 lb whole grain penne pasta, cooked according to package instructions
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Combine roasted red peppers, pesto sauce, goat cheese, pine nuts, red onion, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and stir to combine.
  4. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Why It Works
  • The combination of roasted red peppers, pesto sauce, goat cheese, and pine nuts creates a complex and flavorful dish.
  • The roasted red peppers add a smoky sweetness to the dish.
  • The pesto sauce adds a herby flavor to the dish.
  • The goat cheese adds a creamy texture to the dish.
  • The pine nuts add a nutty texture to the dish.
  • The dish is easy to make and can be made in under 30 minutes.
  • The dish is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck.