Pesto & Prawn Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the rich, herby notes of pesto with succulent prawns and al dente pasta. This salad is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making it perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. The creamy pesto sauce coats the pasta and prawns beautifully, while the addition of fresh vegetables adds a crisp, refreshing element to each bite. Quick and easy to prepare, this pasta salad can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta
- 1 lb raw prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Cook the Prawns:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the prawns and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prawns, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, black olives, and red onion.
- Add the Pesto:
- Add the pesto sauce to the pasta mixture and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Finish the Salad:
- Add the toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss to combine.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer the pasta salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy your Pesto & Prawn Pasta Salad, a delightful and easy dish that’s perfect for any meal or gathering!
