Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Cherry Tomatoes

Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Chicken and Cherry Tomatoes offers a blend of fresh and vibrant flavors. The dish features homemade pesto, tender grilled chicken, and juicy cherry tomatoes combined with pasta cooked to al dente perfection. This versatile salad is great for summer gatherings or a quick dinner and can be enjoyed hot or cold. The simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a convenient choice for any occasion. A delightful meal that is both flavorful and filling, this recipe brings a refreshing twist to traditional pasta salads.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
• 12 oz pasta, cooked and drained

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooked and drained pasta with the prepared pesto sauce until evenly coated.
4. Add the grilled and sliced chicken breasts and the halved cherry tomatoes to the pasta. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
5. The salad can be served immediately while warm or refrigerated to be enjoyed chilled later.

Keywords: Dinner, Homemade, Fresh, Pasta, Italian

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