Mediterranean Penne Pasta Salad with Roasted Vegetables, Fragrant Pesto and Cheese

In this delicious salad, penne pasta becomes the perfect base for an explosion of flavors from roasted vegetables, aromatic pesto and irresistible cheese. The roasted peppers bring a smoky touch, while the eggplant adds a delicious juiciness. The combination of fresh pesto takes the mixture to a level of unparalleled freshness and flavor. Finally, the cheese, be it feta, parmesan or another of your choice, completes this gastronomic experience with its creaminess and salty note. A salad that not only satisfies the palate, but also delights the senses with its vibrant colors and varied textures. Ideal for light meals full of flavor.

PASTA SALAD

INGREDIENTS

• 250g penne pasta
• 1 red bell bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 eggplant, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pine nuts
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For assembly:

• Crumbled feta cheese or cheese of your choice
• Cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• Basil leaves for decoration

PREPARATION METHOD

1. Roasted vegetables:
   • First preheat the oven to 200°C.
   • Then arrange the strips of bell bell pepper and the eggplant cubes on a baking sheet.
   • Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until they are golden and soft.
2. Cooking penne:
   • Cook the penne pasta according to the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.
3. Pesto preparation:
   • In a food processor, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, walnuts (or pine nuts), garlic, salt and pepper. Pulse until you have a coarsely chopped mixture.
   • With the food processor running, slowly add the olive oil until a creamy pesto forms.
4. Assembling the salad:
   • In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables and pesto.
   • Add the halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese. Mix gently.
5. Finalization:
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
   • Finally, serve the pasta salad with roasted vegetables immediately, enjoying it hot or cold.

This salad is an explosion of Mediterranean flavors, combining the creaminess of cheese, the freshness of pesto and the juiciness of roasted vegetables. Perfect for light, flavorful meals, it's a versatile option that can be enjoyed in any season.

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