Forget boring pasta salads! This recipe elevates the classic with a vibrant, homemade roasted almond pesto that's both nutty and surprisingly refreshing. Bow tie pasta, with its charming shape, perfectly captures the creamy pesto and adds a delightful textural element. We're ditching the usual mayonnaise-heavy dressings for a lighter, healthier, and far more flavorful alternative. This pesto is bursting with roasted almond flavor, enhanced by bright lemon zest and a touch of Parmesan cheese. The result is a pasta salad that's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner.
This irresistible Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Roasted Almond Pesto is incredibly easy to make, and the flavor payoff is substantial. Ready to learn how to create this stunning and delicious dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Food processor
- Pan
- Breville slicer (optional)
Ingredients
- Farfalle pasta: 1 pound
- Almonds: 1/2 cup
- Flat Italian parsley: 1 1/2 cups
- Zucchini: 1 1/2 pounds
- Parmesan Reggiano cheese: 1 1/2 cups
- Lemon: 1
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic: 2 medium cloves
- Pink Himalayan salt: null
- Black pepper: null
- Extra virgin olive oil: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Roast Almonds & Prepare Vegetables
- Roast almonds in a pan over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly browned. Set aside.
- Slice zucchini using a mandoline slicer or knife. Sauté in a pan with 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil until slightly softened and caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2. Cook Pasta & Make Pesto
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Refrigerate.
- Pulse garlic in a food processor until fine. Add roasted almonds and pulse until finely chopped. Add salt, pepper, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, and olive oil. Pulse until smooth.
- Add parmesan cheese to the pesto and pulse until combined.
Step 3. Combine Salad Ingredients
- Combine chilled pasta and zucchini in a bowl. Pour pesto over the pasta and zucchini. Toss gently to coat.
Step 4. Chill & Serve
- Top with additional parmesan cheese. Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to chill before serving.
Read more: Sicilian Penne with Cauliflower: A Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
Tips
- Use fresh ground pepper for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the zucchini; you want it to be tender-crisp.
- Undercook the pasta slightly for a firmer texture.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pesto tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. What kind of almonds should I use?
Blanched almonds work best, but you can use slivered almonds if you prefer. Just make sure to roast them until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Can I substitute the pasta?
While farfalle (bow tie) pasta works best due to its shape, you can use other small pasta shapes like rotini or shells.
This Bow Tie Pasta Salad with Roasted Almond Pesto is a delightful dish that's sure to impress. Its unique flavor profile and beautiful presentation make it perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners. Enjoy this fresh and flavorful pasta salad—it's a recipe you'll want to make again and again!