Pasta salad with cilantro pesto

Refreshing and delicious recipe: Pasta salad with cilantro pesto

In the midst of the season where the heat is on and the desire to eat something fresh and full of flavor increases, pasta salad with cilantro pesto presents itself as a perfect option. This dish combines the soft texture of pasta with the aromatic intensity of pesto, made with fresh ingredients and a simple technique that any home cook can master. The key is to use quality ingredients, such as products from reliable brands like Gallo o De Cecco, and to follow a process that preserves the natural color and flavor of cilantro. The versatility of this salad allows it to be used on different occasions, from a family picnic, a quick lunch at the office, or a gathering with friends where the focus will be on its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. The innovation of cilantro pesto, with its spicy and acidic lime touch, takes the classic pasta salad to a higher level, making each bite an experience full of freshness and joy.

Preparation time for pasta salad with cilantro pesto

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 12 minutes
• Total: 27 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients for a vibrant pasta salad with cilantro pesto

For the pasta

• 400 g of penne or fusilli pasta (preferably from brands like Barilla o Gallina Blanca)
• Enough water to cook it
• Coarse salt for cooking

For the cilantro pesto

• 1 large bunch of cilantro, including stems (well washed in cold water to remove sand)
• 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds (or walnuts if you're looking for a more economical and milder version)
• 1/2 cup of Cotija cheese or fresh Parmesan
• 1 tablespoon of lime juice (you can substitute with lemon if you prefer)
• 3 peeled garlic cloves
• 3/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil like that of Carbonell
• A pinch of salt and white pepper to taste
• Optional: a small jalapeño or serrano for a spicy kick (check this page for how accessories can improve your salads)

To complete and decorate

• 100 g seedless cherry tomatoes, quartered
• 1/2 finely chopped green onion
• Extra cilantro leaves for garnish

Useful utensils to prepare your pasta salad with cilantro pesto

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Colander or strainer
• Food processor or blender
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing

How to prepare pasta salad with cilantro pesto in simple steps

1. Cook the pasta to perfection

• Bring a large pot of abundant water and salt to taste to a boil (about 1 tablespoon per liter of water).
• When it boils, add the pasta and cook for 12 minutes or until al dente, following package instructions.
• Drain the pasta and reserve ¼ cup of the cooking water, important for adjusting the pesto's texture if necessary.

2. Prepare the cilantro pesto to enhance its aroma and color

• Place the washed cilantro with stems, half the amount of pumpkin seeds, Cotija cheese, garlic cloves, and lime juice in the food processor.
• Pulse several times to chop and mix the ingredients.
• Slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream, while blending, until a thick and shiny sauce, similar to a chimichurri, is obtained.
• Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, remembering that the cheese already adds sodium.

3. Mix everything and decorate before serving

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped tomatoes, and onion.
• Incorporate the pesto and stir gently so that all the pasta is well coated with flavor.
• If the mixture is too thick, add a little of the reserved cooking water to lighten the texture.
• Serve in individual dishes, decorating with fresh cilantro leaves and, optionally, a few extra pumpkin seeds.

To finish and enjoy

When the salad is ready, check the seasoning and adjust with more lime or salt if necessary. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, ideal for hot days. Accompany with a slice of crusty bread and, if you like, add a touch of extra cheese to enhance the flavors. This recipe is perfect for sharing at family gatherings or outdoor picnics, providing a fresh and different twist to the classic pasta salads that everyone enjoys. Additionally, you can prepare the pesto in advance and store it in an airtight jar in the fridge, ensuring a fresh flavor for more days.

I want to share these tips for a spectacular result

• To maintain the vibrant color of the cilantro pesto, blanch the leaves in boiling water for a few seconds and quickly transfer them to an ice bath.
• If you want a creamier texture, add a little more olive oil or a few tablespoons of the reserved cooking water.
• For a spicier touch, include a jalapeño in the pesto; instead of pine nuts, use pecans to save money and get a mild flavor.
• Plating: use a round mold or a glass to shape the salad and make it look more attractive on the table.
• To preserve it, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, preferably adding a layer of olive oil on top, and consume it within the next 2 days to enjoy its freshness.

Approximate nutritional values per serving

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Proteins: 10 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 4 g

The values are estimates based on approximate ingredients and quantities, perfect for planning your daily meals in 2025.

5 keys to make your pasta salad with cilantro pesto perfect

1. Choose a quality pasta like those from Barilla o Gallina Blanca to ensure a proper texture when cooked.
2. Blanch the cilantro to enhance its brightness and intense flavor, as well as to prevent it from losing its color during the mentioned storage time.
3. Use fresh and seasonal ingredients, such as pumpkin seeds or nuts, to guarantee maximum flavor and aroma in homemade pesto.
4. Control the amount of oil to obtain a creamy texture, but without it being too liquid, achieving a consistent but unctuous pesto.
5. Don't forget to adjust the salt and acidity at the end, tasting the mixture and correcting according to your personal taste for a balanced result.

When to enjoy a pasta salad with cilantro pesto?

This dish is ideal for hot summer days, where a cold and nutritious meal helps keep you energized without feeling heavy. It is also perfect for family gatherings, picnics in the park, or as an appetizer at a formal meal, adding color and freshness to any table. Its versatility and quick preparation ensure that you can enjoy every moment without sacrificing flavor and quality. For special occasions, such as celebrations or outdoor events, this salad becomes the star due to its vibrant flavor and appetizing appearance. For a picnic or a quick meal, accompany it with crusty bread and a refreshing drink. Remember that its preparation can be done in advance and kept refrigerated for up to one day, provided it is well covered and has a layer of oil on top to prevent oxidation. Without a doubt, a dish that fascinates both for its flavor and its practicality.

Comparative recipe: Alternatives to pasta salad with cilantro pesto

Looking for similar variations to expand your repertoire? Here's a comparative table to help you understand how they differ from or complement the main recipe:

Frequently asked questions about pasta salad with cilantro pesto

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Culinary glossary: key terms of the recipe

• Blanch: Submerge in boiling water for a few seconds to modify the texture or color, and then quickly cool in ice water.
• Pesto: Thick sauce made with herbs, nuts, cheese, and oil, ideal for accompanying pasta or using as a condiment.
• Al dente: Pasta cooked to the point where it is firm to the bite, neither soft nor hard.
• Finely chopped: Cut the ingredients into small, uniform pieces to facilitate mixing and improve the dish's texture.
• Blending process: Blend ingredients until a smooth and homogeneous sauce is obtained, using a blender or food processor.