Pesto pasta salad is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture. This quick and easy dish works great for picnics, meal prep, or a light lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pesto pasta salad is incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor. The fresh basil pesto coats every bite of pasta, making it rich and aromatic.
Juicy cherry tomatoes add a touch of sweetness, while mozzarella brings a creamy contrast. Best of all, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This dish is also highly versatile. You can serve it warm or cold, making it perfect for any season. Plus, it stores well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days. Whether you need a quick lunch, a picnic dish, or a side for your next barbecue, this pesto pasta salad has you covered.
Ingredients
To make this delicious pesto pasta salad, you’ll need:
For the Pasta Salad:
- 12 ounces (340g) rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls (or diced mozzarella)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pesto Dressing:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of half a lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Avoid overcooking, as slightly firm pasta holds up better in a salad. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Pesto
While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the pesto becomes smooth. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper. Give it a quick pulse to mix everything together.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls. Pour the fresh pesto over the pasta and toss everything until well coated. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the pesto seems too thick, stir in a tablespoon of pasta water to loosen it up. For extra freshness, garnish with a few extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Step 5: Serve or Store
Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful dish. If making ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to two days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Variations and Add-Ins
This pesto pasta salad is already delicious as-is, but you can customize it to suit your taste:
- Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can turn this salad into a complete meal.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the mozzarella and Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Boost the Veggies: Toss in spinach, arugula, bell peppers, or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Use a Different Pasta: Try whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even tortellini for a unique twist.
- Try Different Nuts: Swap pine nuts for almonds, cashews, or sunflower seeds for a budget-friendly alternative.
Tips for the Best Pesto Pasta Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and good-quality olive oil make all the difference in homemade pesto.
- Toast the Nuts: Lightly toast pine nuts or walnuts in a dry pan for a few minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Balance the Flavors: The lemon juice in the pesto helps cut through the richness of the cheese and oil.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly firm pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- Let It Chill: If you have time, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Conclusion
This pesto pasta salad is a simple, flavorful dish that fits any occasion. Whether you serve it fresh or chilled, it delivers the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and freshness.
The combination of homemade pesto, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella creates a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make. Best of all, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great option for busy days. Make it ahead of time and enjoy a hassle-free meal with every bite!
