What’s your favorite pesto pasta salad? What is a pasta salad? I bring it to every potluck, the one my kids beg for in their lunchboxes, and that one that I never forget. Even picky eaters devour without complaint. Think of it as the cooler, more sophisticated cousin of your standard Macaroni Salad – way more elegant. Is it easy to make a delicious soup? What is a crowd-pleaser that’s also secretly incredibly simple? What is pasta salad? The first time I made this was for a summer barbecue and it was gone in minutes! I’ve been tweaking it ever since to reach absolute perfection.
What is Pesto Pasta Salad?
Pesto Pasta Salad is a celebration of simple, fresh flavors. What is essentially cooked pasta (I usually go for rotini or farfalle because they hold the pesto so well). Is it good to eat mozzarella balls tossed with pesto sauce, juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella? Is there any way to customize this app? Think of it as a blank canvas for your favorite veggies and cheeses. What is a good way to use up what you have in your fridge? Is it a lighter, brighter alternative to heavier pasta dishes, perfect for warm weather gatherings or parties? What is a quick weeknight meal? The magic is in the pesto – the fragrant basil, garlic, and pine nuts make all the difference.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the best Pasta Salad recipes? What I love most is that it’s just bursting with flavor – the pesto is so bright and herbaceous, and the sauce is just as good. What are some of the best mozzarella cheeses? Is this a flavor explosion? We’re talking 20 minutes. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. How do you make a huge batch for under $20? What is the versatility? What are some good side dishes to serve as a main course? I even add grilled chicken or shrimp sometimes to make it a complete meal. If you like the sound of this, you might also enjoy my Caprese salad with balsamic glaze – oh my! Is there a similar vibe to this one? I’ve made it for so many events, and this pesto pasta salad is always the star.
How do I make pesto pasta salad?
Quick Overview
How do you make pesto pasta salad? How do you cook pasta, chop veggies, mix everything together with the pesto, and that’s it! How do you cook pasta al dente? What is the flavor of pesto? What is the ultimate no-fuss dish?
Ingredients
What is Pesto Pasta Salad?
* 1 pound rotini or farfalle pasta (I like the tri-color for extra visual appeal! * 1 cup pesto (store bought is fine, but homemade is even better! ) * 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved * 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), hilvrated or shredded. 1 pound mozzarella ball. * 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a nice salty kick) * Salt and pepper * What is the best way to garnish fresh basil with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste?
Optional Add-In
* Grilled Chicken or Shrimp * Artichoke hearts, quarters * Kalamata olives, halved * Sun-dried tomatoes * Tomatoes, oil-packed, drained * Toasted pine nuts
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Don’t overcook it! I usually set a timer for less than the package suggests, then test it to be sure. What do you like about mushy pasta salad?
Step 2: Drain and Rinse
Drain pasta well in a colander. Is it safe to cook with cold water? I always run my hands through pasta to make sure all the water is out. This is a crucial step!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with pesto. I use a spatula for this to avoid smashing the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that pesto can be quite salty already, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed. I always taste it at this point and add a little extra pepper – it really brings out the flavors.
Step 5: Add Optional Add-Ins
If you’re using any optional add-ins like grilled chicken, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes, make sure you use them. Now is the time to add them. Gently fold them into the pasta salad.
Step 6: Chill (Optional)
For the best flavor, cover the pasta salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Before serving. How do the flavors meld together? I’ve served it immediately before and it’s still delicious!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve chilled or at room temperature. I love to add a little extra drizzle of pesto on top for an interesting presentation.
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
Pesto pasta salad is so versatile, it goes with anything! What are some of my favorite pairings?
For a BBQ:What are the best grilled burgers, hot dogs, or chicken? The bright flavors of pesto cut through the richness of the grilled meats perfectly.
For a Picnic:Sandwiches, Fruit Salad, and potato chips. Is it easy to transport and doesn’t need to be kept super cold?
As a light lunch:Serve it on its own or with crusty bread. Sometimes I’ll add a hard-boiled egg for extra protein.
For a Potluck:What are some crowd pleasers? Is it easy to make a big batch of this and it looks beautiful on .a buffet table?
My family loves it with grilled salmon. The pesto and salmon are such a great combination. What is the best comfort food to have with Garlic Bread?
6. Top Tips for Perfecting Your Pesto Pasta Salad
How do I make pesto pasta salad?
What are some of the best ways to make pesto pasta salad?
Don’t overcook the pasta!I can’t stress this enough! Al dente pasta is the best texture. Soggy pasta is a pasta salad killer.
How do I use high quality pestoIf you’re using store-bought pesto, look for a brand with simple ingredients and green. Homemade pesto is always good, but store-bought works in a pinch.
Add a little lemon juice:Can you use fresh lemon juice to brighten up the pesto? I usually add about a tablespoon to my water.
How do you toast pine nuts?What are some good ways to toast pine nuts for salad? Be careful not to burn them!
Don’t be afraid to experiment!What’s your favorite veggie to add to this recipe?
I accidentally used a whole container of sun-dried tomatoes and it was surprisingly delicious! What do you like the most? I also found that adding a tiny bit of red pepper flakes can give it ‘a nice kick’.
7. Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing and Reheating Tips
This pesto pasta salad is best served cold, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
Store in an Airtight Container: This will prevent the pasta from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
Add a Little Extra Pesto Before Serving: The pasta tends to absorb the pesto over time, so adding a little extra before serving will keep it nice and flavorful.
Don’t Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing this pasta salad. The pasta will become mushy and the mozzarella will lose its texture.
I usually add a drizzle of olive oil before storing it – it helps keep the pasta from sticking together. And if I’m making it ahead of time, I’ll wait to add the basil until just before serving to keep it fresh.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
9. Final Thoughts
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to pesto pasta salad recipe! I truly believe that this is a recipe everyone should have in their arsenal. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and always a hit. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or just looking for a simple weeknight meal, this pesto pasta salad is sure to please. And if you’re a fan of easy and flavorful pasta dishes, you might also enjoy my creamy tomato pasta or my lemon garlic shrimp pasta. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what variations you tried!
pesto pasta salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1 cup basil leaves
- 0.5 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cubed
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella to the pesto. Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
