Craving a fresh and satisfying lunch? This Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad Bento is perfect for your Healthy Bento Box Lunches, offering a delicious and easy-to-pack meal that keeps you energized throughout the day. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option that brings vibrant flavor to your midday break.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Short Pasta: Use rotini, fusilli, or farfalle for best texture. Whole wheat options boost fiber.
- Pesto: Store-bought or homemade works beautifully.
- Greek Yogurt: Provides creaminess and protein; plain dairy-free yogurt can be substituted.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes are good alternatives.
- Cucumber: Zucchini or bell peppers add similar crunch.
- Chickpeas: Great source of plant-based protein; can omit or substitute with white beans.
- Spinach: Mixed greens or arugula also work well.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) cooked short pasta (e.g., rotini, fusilli)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Optional:
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for pasta)
- Servings: 2 bento box portions
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, saucepan for pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen short pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to cool, then drain again thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto and plain Greek yogurt. Whisk them together until you achieve a smooth, creamy dressing. This forms the delicious base for your Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad Bento.
3. Combine Ingredients
Add the cooled, drained pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and rinsed chickpeas to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Add the Greens
Finally, fold in the fresh spinach. Continue tossing carefully until the spinach is well distributed throughout the pasta salad. You want all the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Assemble Your Bento
Divide the creamy pesto pasta salad evenly between two bento boxes. If using, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and texture. Your Healthy Bento Box Lunches are now ready!
Variation Ideas:
- Protein Boost: Add diced grilled chicken, canned tuna, or crumbled feta cheese.
- Veggies Galore: Include roasted red peppers, steamed broccoli florets, or corn.
- Zesty Twist: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little kick.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad Bento in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating, making it ideal for convenient Healthy Bento Box Lunches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad up to 3-4 days in advance. The flavors often meld and improve over time.
What kind of pasta works best for pasta salad?
Short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, penne, or farfalle are excellent as they hold the dressing well.
Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
You can easily make it dairy-free by using dairy-free pesto, plain dairy-free yogurt, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Can you add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, red onion, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
How do you prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta only until al dente and rinse it immediately with cold water after draining to stop the cooking process.
What makes this a good bento box meal?
It’s delicious cold, holds up well, and combines carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables for a balanced and satisfying Healthy Bento Box Lunch.