Pesto Pasta Salad

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch or a dish to bring to a potluck, this pesto pasta salad is delicious and easy to make. Made with vibrant basil pesto tossed with perfectly cooked pasta noodles, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes! It’s perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or as a quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes just about 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella creates a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side dish; it’s great for any occasion.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This pasta salad holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious pesto pasta salad, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for making smooth and creamy pesto quickly.
• Large pot: Necessary for cooking the pasta evenly and thoroughly.
• Colander: Helps drain excess water from the pasta after cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 1 pound pasta (such as cavatelli or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into small bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

For the Pesto Dressing

• 3 cups basil leaves
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until tender. Be sure to check the package for recommended cook time. Once cooked, drain and rinse well under cold water.

Step 2: Make the Pesto

While the pasta cooks, prepare the basil pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. Scoop out of the food processor and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Pasta Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the prepared pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoncini, and parsley. Toss until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

This pesto pasta salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation. Enjoy it fresh or chilled!

How to Serve Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto pasta salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or as a light meal, consider these serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• This salad can stand alone as a satisfying main dish. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or beef for a delightful complement to your protein.

For Meal Prep

• Divide the salad into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days.

At Potlucks

• Bring this dish to potlucks or family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and flavors are sure to impress guests.

With Additional Toppings

• Consider adding extra toppings like arugula, olives, or chickpeas for more texture and flavor variation.

How to Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect pesto pasta salad involves attention to detail and fresh ingredients. Here are some tips for achieving the best results.

• Use fresh basil: Fresh basil elevates the flavor of your pesto, making it aromatic and delicious.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking pasta until it’s firm but tender ensures it holds its shape and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with pesto.
• Rinse with cold water: After draining your pasta, rinsing it with cold water stops the cooking process and helps maintain its texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste your salad before serving; adjusting salt, pepper, or lemon juice can enhance overall flavor.
• Serve chilled: Allowing your salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with pesto pasta salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal veggies grilled until tender adds a smoky flavor that complements the salad perfectly.

2. Roasted Chicken Thighs
   Juicy roasted chicken thighs seasoned with herbs provide a savory contrast to the freshness of the pasta salad.

3. Garlic Bread
   Crunchy garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for scooping up any leftover pesto sauce.

4. Caprese Salad
   A classic Caprese salad made with fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offers a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully.

5. Zucchini Noodles
   Light and healthy zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil serve as a low-carb side that balances out heavier dishes.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa add both color and heartiness to your meal, creating a vibrant plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pesto pasta salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the rinse: Not rinsing your pasta after cooking can lead to a sticky mess. Rinse it well under cold water to stop the cooking process and enhance texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushiness. Follow package instructions closely for al dente perfection.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your dish bland. Always sample your salad before serving and add more salt or pepper if needed.
• Using stale ingredients: Using old or expired ingredients like cheese and nuts can ruin the flavor. Check freshness before adding anything to your salad.
• Not blending enough: If your pesto isn’t blended thoroughly, it may not distribute evenly throughout the pasta. Process until smooth for a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Pesto pasta salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pesto Pasta Salad

• It is best not to freeze this dish as the texture may change upon thawing.
• If you must freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Pesto Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pesto pasta salad:

Can I use store-bought pesto for my Pesto Pasta Salad?

Yes, store-bought pesto can save time. However, homemade pesto offers fresher flavors.

How can I customize my Pesto Pasta Salad?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a different taste.

What types of pasta work best for Pesto Pasta Salad?

Short pastas like penne or cavatelli work great because they hold onto the pesto sauce nicely.

Can I make Pesto Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after marinating in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Final Thoughts

This pesto pasta salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a potluck dish. Its versatility allows you to customize with various veggies or proteins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the fresh flavors of basil and cheese!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Pesto Pasta Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, enjoying a picnic, or simply need a quick weeknight dinner, this salad delivers on flavor and ease. With its creamy basil pesto coating perfectly cooked pasta, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes and rich mozzarella, it’s a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes! Feel free to customize with your choice of vegetables or proteins for an added twist. This make-ahead friendly recipe is sure to impress your family and friends alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound pasta (cavatelli or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 3 cups basil leaves
• ½ cup olive oil
• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with the pesto dressing, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Toss well to combine.
4. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving chilled or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 15mg