Christmas Pasta Salad

Christmas Pasta Salad is a festive and flavorful dish that is perfect for bringing some holiday cheer to your table. This delicious salad combines all the traditional flavors of Christmas with the convenience and versatility of pasta, making it a hit at any holiday gathering. With its vibrant colors and delicious combination of ingredients, Christmas Pasta Salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will add a festive touch to your holiday menu.

Christmas Pasta Salad
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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Additional Time:

8 hrs

Total Time:

8 hrs 35 mins

Servings:

8

Yield:

8 servings

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked orzo pasta
⅓ cup pesto, or to taste
2 teaspoons lemon juice (Optional)
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

Directions

Step 1

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.

Step 2

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.

Step 3

Mix in basil right before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

331

Calories

11g

Fat

44g

Carbs

15g

Protein

Complement

The beauty of Christmas Pasta Salad lies in its ability to incorporate the flavors of the season in a light and refreshing dish. The colorful mix of vegetables, pasta, and a zesty dressing creates a dish that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Whether it's served as a side dish or a main course, this salad is a great way to add some variety to your holiday spread. From the bright red and green bell peppers to the tangy dressing and the comforting texture of the pasta, every bite of Christmas Pasta Salad is a delightful taste of the holiday season.