If you’re craving a dish that combines vibrant flavors, bright colors, and delightful textures, you have to try this Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of al dente pasta, creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and that unmistakable fresh basil pesto that ties everything together. Whether you’re planning a casual picnic, need a quick weeknight side, or want a crowd-pleaser for potluck parties, this salad brings both freshness and richness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe a breeze to assemble and a joy to eat. Each one adds a layer of flavor, texture, or color that creates a balanced and irresistible dish.

12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta: Perfect shapes for holding onto the pesto and toppings.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds a juicy burst of sweetness and vibrant red hue.
1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella: Brings a creamy, mild flavor that complements the pesto.
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional): Offers a subtle briny bite that enhances complexity.
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Provides a sharp crunch and slight bite for balance.
1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional): Adds nutty crunch, boosting texture and depth.
1/2 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought): The hero ingredient delivering fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to loosen the pesto for easy tossing and extra silkiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into harmony.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh aroma right before serving.

How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta

Start by boiling your chosen pasta until it’s al dente, usually a minute or two less than package instructions to keep that perfect firmness. Once cooked, drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta completely. This step is key to a refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe that isn’t mushy or overdone.

Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Cheese

In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, black olives if you’re using them, red onion, and crunchy nuts. Each ingredient adds personality, from creamy mozzarella to zesty onion and crisp nuts, creating a salad that’s exciting with every bite.

Step 3: Toss with Pesto and Olive Oil

Mix your pesto with olive oil in a small bowl to get a slick, flavorful dressing. Pour this luscious green sauce over your pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated with that vibrant, herby goodness. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper to truly elevate the flavors.

Step 4: Chill and Garnish

For best results, refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully. Just before serving, adorn with fresh basil leaves, adding a fragrant touch that makes this Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe shine.

How to Serve Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are a classic garnish that add a bright aroma and a pop of green. For more texture, sprinkle a few extra toasted pine nuts or a dusting of grated Parmesan. A little cracked black pepper on top can also enhance the final presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a fuller meal. It’s also fantastic alongside crusty garlic bread or a simple leafy green salad, making any table look colorful and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your pesto pasta salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or colorful bell peppers for an eye-catching appetizer. You can also layer it in a glass jar for picnic-perfect portability or portion it into single-serving bowls topped with a basil sprig for effortless entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Since pesto can darken when exposed to air, give it a fresh toss before serving to restore that vibrant green appearance.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad since the pasta and fresh ingredients like mozzarella and tomatoes can become watery and lose their texture after thawing.

Reheating

This recipe is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply scoop out your portion and heat gently in the microwave or a pan, but be aware the fresh flavors will mellow.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini and bowtie pasta are ideal for holding pesto and toppings, fusilli, penne, or farfalle all work wonderfully too. Choose your favorite shape for a personal touch.

Is homemade pesto better than store-bought?

Homemade pesto always adds a fresh, vibrant taste, but good quality store-bought pesto can save time and still make this salad taste incredible. Feel free to experiment!

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas are excellent additions for extra protein, making this salad more filling and nutritious.

How long can I make this salad in advance?

This salad is great made a few hours ahead or the day before. Just refrigerate in an airtight container and add any fresh garnishes right before serving for best results.

What can I substitute for pine nuts?

If pine nuts aren’t your favorite or you’re allergic, walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch and complementary flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe is truly a keeper, blending fresh, simple ingredients into a dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying some solo, it’s sure to brighten up your meals and become a favorite go-to. So grab your pasta and pesto, and get ready to savor a salad that celebrates the best of Italian-inspired flavors!

Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 80 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A refreshing and flavorful Pesto Pasta Salad featuring al dente rotini pasta tossed with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, pine nuts, and a vibrant pesto dressing. Perfect as a make-ahead side dish or a light summer meal, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of aroma and color.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Salad

12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta, cooked and cooled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup pine nuts or chopped walnuts (optional)

Dressing

1/2 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

Fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil the rotini or bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
Combine the salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, sliced black olives if using, finely chopped red onion, and pine nuts or walnuts if desired. Mix gently to combine.
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto and olive oil until smooth and well blended. Pour this dressing over the pasta salad.
Toss and season: Toss the pasta salad thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the pesto dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and colorful finish.