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Delicious basil pasta salad with fresh ingredients.

Basil Pasta Salad: A Fresh and Flavorful Delight

This basil pasta salad is a creamy and flavorful dish, perfect for gatherings or a light meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • food processor
  • large pot
  • large bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing

  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves packed
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • ¾ cup mayonnaise plus more as needed
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar optional
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Pasta Salad

  • 12 ounces bowtie pasta
  • 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
  • ½ small red onion chopped
  • ½ cup chopped roasted red peppers
  • ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives
  • 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Combine garlic and basil in a food processor and process until finely chopped, then add mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and salt, blending until smooth.
  • Boil salted water, add pasta, and cook until tender; drain and rinse with cold water.
  • In a large bowl, mix cooled pasta with tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, olives, and chicken.
  • Pour in the basil dressing and stir gently; refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Notes

Optional sugar in the dressing enhances flavor without sweetness. Customize with various vegetables, cheeses, or meats. Chilling improves flavor.
Keyword basil pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, fresh basil salad, pasta salad