Ultimate Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes and Mozzarella

ULTIMATE PESTO PASTA SALAD WITH TOMATOES AND MOZZARELLA
8 oz. uncooked whole-grain farfalle
2 c. fresh basil leaves
3 T. good quality olive oil
1 T. lemon zest
Kosher salt, black pepper
1 garlic clove
1 c. grape tomatoes, halved
1 c. yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
1 1/2 c. fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/2” cubes, divided
¼ c. freshly grated Romano cheese

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat.
2. Drain and place in large bowl.
3. Combine basil, olive oil, zest, salt, pepper and garlic clove into a food processor.
4. Process until smooth.
5. Add the basil mixture, tomatoes and 1 c. of mozzarella cubes to pasta.
6. Toss to combine.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella and Romano cheese. Taste for seasoning.