Pastina Salad (with Pesto)
This pastina salad is fresh, light, and loaded with sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, toasted pine nuts, and Parmesan shavings tossed in a creamy pesto dressing. Ready in just 20 minutes to be enjoyed as a main or a side for your next barbecue.
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 416kcal
Ingredients
- 1.25 cup pastina (Note 1)
- ½ cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoon mayo
- ¼ cup pine nuts
- 10 oz cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup chopped basil
- ¼ cup Parmesan shavings
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pastina until al dente, 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water until fully cooled.
- Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat (350°F / 175°C) until golden and fragrant, 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
- Whisk the pesto and mayo together in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add the drained pastina and toss to coat evenly.
- Fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and basil.
- Top with Parmesan shavings and toasted pine nuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Pastina: It's not always easy to find in regular grocery stores, so check Italian specialty stores or order online. When it comes to substitutes, stelline is my go-to. It's widely available and a close match. Orzo or fregola will also work.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 416kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 443mg | Potassium: 262mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1130IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 141mg | Iron: 3mg