CHRISTMAS PASTA SALAD

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Christmas Pasta Salad image

The orzo in this salad is reminiscent of pine needles and when dressed in pesto brings a lovely green hue. Perlini mozzarella balls become ornaments, as do cherry tomatoes and ribbons of basil and pepperoni. I do not add salt as I find the pepperoni and pesto to be ample enough. Additional toppings to consider are slivers of red onion, black olives, and diced green bell pepper. I don't like balsamic vinegar, thus the lemon juice.

Provided by thedailygourmet

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Tomato Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 8h35m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked orzo pasta
⅓ cup pesto, or to taste
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 ounces mozzarella cheese balls or pearls
¼ cup sliced pepperoni, cut into strips
3 large fresh basil leaves, julienned

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook orzo in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add pesto and lemon juice to the orzo; toss to coat. Mix in tomatoes, mozzarella cheese balls, and pepperoni strips. Refrigerate for 8 hours to overnight.
  • Mix in basil right before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 330.8 calories, Carbohydrate 43.8 g, Cholesterol 19.9 mg, Fat 11 g, Fiber 2.3 g, Protein 14.7 g, SaturatedFat 4 g, Sodium 288.8 mg, Sugar 2.5 g

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