Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred together the vibrant colors of my latest creation, I couldn’t help but smile at the aroma wafting through the kitchen. This Quick and Easy Pesto Pasta Salad combines al dente pasta with a fresh basil pesto, making it a showstopper at summer gatherings or a cozy lunch at home. What I love most about this dish is that it comes together in just 30 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy the sun or entertain friends without the stress of elaborate cooking. Plus, it’s a vegetarian delight that pleases even the hardest-to-impress palates! Are you ready to toss together something that feels gourmet yet is surprisingly simple? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is Pesto Pasta Salad a Must-Try? Vibrant, Fresh Ingredients: The bright colors and flavors make this dish an eye-catching addition to any table. Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have more time to savor summer moments. Versatile Options: Customize it easily with grilled chicken, seasonal veggies, or gluten-free pasta to suit everyone’s tastes. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, it appeals to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Deliciously Addictive: Each bite offers a burst of flavor from the creamy pesto and juicy tomatoes, making it hard to resist! For another refreshing take on pasta, you might also enjoy our Tomato Pasta One or even our Smashed Potato Salad. Pesto Pasta Salad Ingredients • Dive into the vibrant flavors of Pesto Pasta Salad with these simple ingredients! For the Salad Pasta – 1 pound of pasta (such as cavatelli or penne); provides the salad’s base; choose your favorite shape. Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup, halved; adds freshness and sweetness; substitute with grape tomatoes if unavailable. Fresh Mozzarella – 8 oz, cut into small bite-sized pieces; brings creaminess; can switch with cubed feta or omit for a dairy-free version. Red Onion – ½ cup, finely chopped; adds crunch and sharpness; use green onions for a milder flavor. Pepperoncini – ¼ cup, chopped; introduces a tangy heat; substitute with sliced olives if preferred. Parsley – ¼ cup, finely chopped; enhances freshness; can replace with basil or a mix of herbs. For the Pesto Basil Leaves – 3 cups (for pesto); essential for the classic pesto flavor; fresh is best but can use store-bought if short on time. Olive Oil – ½ cup; provides richness; use a flavored oil for added dimension. Pine Nuts – ⅓ cup; contributes a nutty flavor and creaminess; replace with walnuts or sunflower seeds. Grated Parmesan Cheese – ⅓ cup; adds depth of flavor; omit for vegan or lactose-free diets. Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon; brightens the flavor; substitute with lime juice for a different zest. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; infuses the pesto with aromatic flavor; adjust to taste. Sea Salt – 1 teaspoon; balances flavors; taste and adjust according to dietary needs. Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon; enhances taste; freshly ground is recommended. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Pasta Salad Step 1: Cook the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add in 1 pound of your chosen pasta, such as cavatelli or penne, and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to halt cooking and cool it down, allowing it to be tossed later in your Pesto Pasta Salad. Step 2: Make the Pesto While the pasta cools, prepare the vibrant pesto. In a food processor, add 3 cups of fresh basil leaves, ⅓ cup of pine nuts, ⅓ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of olive oil, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Set your fresh pesto aside, savoring its aromatic fragrance. Step 3: Assemble the Salad In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared pesto. Gently fold in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 8 ounces of cut fresh mozzarella, ¼ cup of chopped pepperoncini, and ¼ cup of finely chopped parsley. Toss everything together until the pasta is lovingly coated with the pesto and the ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring every bite will be bursting with flavor in your delightful Pesto Pasta Salad. Step 4: Chill and Serve Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let your Pesto Pasta Salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period not only enhances the flavors but also makes it refreshingly cold, perfect for hot summer days. When ready to serve, give it another gentle toss, adjust seasoning if necessary, and enjoy the vibrant, colorful dish as a delightful centerpiece at your next gathering. Pesto Pasta Salad Variations & Substitutions Feel free to make this delightful Pesto Pasta Salad your own by playing with the flavors, textures, and even dietary needs! Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying protein punch. This twist adds heartiness and makes every forkful even more delightful! Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta shape to cater to gluten sensitivities. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness! Veggie Delight: Incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and vibrant colors. It’s a great way to make the dish more filling! Dairy-Free: Swap out the fresh mozzarella with avocado or omit cheese completely for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Your taste buds won’t miss a beat! Flavorful Herbs: Experiment with different herbs by swapping parsley for arugula or fresh basil to elevate the freshness in your salad. Each herb brings its own unique taste! Spice it Up: If you love some heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the pesto or directly in the salad for a spicy kick. Nut Alternatives: For those with nut allergies, replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds to maintain that satisfying crunch without any worry. Zingy Twist: Incorporate lemon zest or a dash of balsamic vinegar for an extra zing that wakes up the flavors. Little adjustments can make a huge difference! These variations allow you to adjust the classic Pesto Pasta Salad to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant salad for a summer gathering or a quick and easy meal, let your creativity shine! And while you’re exploring flavorful pasta dishes, you might also want to check out our refreshing Cucumber Shrimp Salad or a hearty Pasta Puttanesca Savory. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Make Ahead Options Preparing your Pesto Pasta Salad in advance is a fantastic way to save time and ensure a delicious meal is ready when you need it! You can make the pesto portion up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Cook the pasta and toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking, allowing it to chill for up to 24 hours before adding it to the salad. When you’re ready to serve, combine the cold pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and other mix-ins. This way, you can enjoy a flavorful dish with minimal effort on busy days, ensuring your Pesto Pasta Salad is just as delicious and vibrant! What to Serve with Quick and Easy Pesto Pasta Salad Serve this colorful dish alongside complementary flavors to create a delightful summer meal experience. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and a smoky flavor that wonderfully balances the fresh herbs in the salad. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery garlic breadsticks provide a satisfying crunch and are perfect for sopping up any extra pesto. Caprese Skewers: Thread fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers for a fresh, bite-sized appetizer that echoes the salad flavors. Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich pesto, refreshing your palate between bites. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers offer a warm, savory contrast to the cold pasta salad. Lemonade Spritzers: Refreshing lemonade with a splash of sparkling water serves as a thirst-quencher, balancing the meal’s richness. Strawberry Shortcake: For dessert, a light strawberry shortcake adds a sweet, fruity finish that pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors of your meal. Expert Tips for Pesto Pasta Salad Perfect Pasta Texture: Avoid overcooking the pasta to keep it al dente, which adds delightful texture to your Pesto Pasta Salad. Flavor Infusion: Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances taste. Tailor Your Pesto: Feel free to adjust the garlic or lemon juice in the pesto for a personalized flavor boost that aligns with your taste preferences. Freshness Matters: Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but if pressed for time, store-bought pesto can be a convenient choice—just don’t forget to taste and adjust! Add Nutrition: To elevate your Pesto Pasta Salad, consider adding grilled chicken or seasonal vegetables for extra nutrients and color. How to Store and Freeze Pesto Pasta Salad Fridge: Store your Pesto Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors improve after a day in the fridge, creating a delicious dish ready to enjoy anytime. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Pesto Pasta Salad in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Note that pasta may change texture upon thawing. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Gently toss to reintroduce flavors after thawing. Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of olive oil to revive its delightful creaminess. Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs What type of pasta should I use for Pesto Pasta Salad? Absolutely! For the best results, choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as cavatelli or penne. These shapes provide little nooks for the creamy pesto to cling to. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite types, including whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit your dietary needs! How long can I store Pesto Pasta Salad in the fridge? You can store your Pesto Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The beauty of this dish is that the flavors continue to develop after a day in the fridge, making it even tastier as leftovers! Can I freeze Pesto Pasta Salad? Yes! To freeze your Pesto Pasta Salad, place it in a freezer-safe container and seal it tightly. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Be aware that the texture of the pasta may change slightly, so I recommend tossing it gently to redistribute the pesto before serving. What if my pesto turns out too thick or too thin? Very! If your pesto is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more olive oil or a splash of water while blending to achieve your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, try adding more basil leaves or some extra Parmesan cheese to thicken it up. Taste and adjust until it’s just right for your salad! Are there any dietary considerations for Pesto Pasta Salad? Yes, definitely! For a vegan or dairy-free option, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, if you’re serving this dish to guests who have allergies, be sure to check for any potential allergens in your ingredients, such as nuts from the pine nuts and gluten in the pasta. Always consider your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful salad! How can I customize my Pesto Pasta Salad? The more the merrier! You can customize your pasta salad by adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein or incorporating seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and color. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative with what you love! Ultimate Pesto Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Summer Fun No ratings yet This Pesto Pasta Salad combines vibrant ingredients and a creamy basil pesto, making it a delightful dish for summer gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChill Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad1 pound pasta (such as cavatelli or penne) provides the salad's base; choose your favorite shape.1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved adds freshness and sweetness; substitute with grape tomatoes if unavailable.8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small bite-sized pieces brings creaminess; can switch with cubed feta or omit for a dairy-free version.½ cup red onion, finely chopped adds crunch and sharpness; use green onions for a milder flavor.¼ cup pepperoncini, chopped introduces a tangy heat; substitute with sliced olives if preferred.¼ cup parsley, finely chopped enhances freshness; can replace with basil or a mix of herbs.For the Pesto3 cups basil leaves essential for the classic pesto flavor; fresh is best but can use store-bought if short on time.½ cup olive oil provides richness; use a flavored oil for added dimension.⅓ cup pine nuts contributes a nutty flavor and creaminess; replace with walnuts or sunflower seeds.⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese adds depth of flavor; omit for vegan or lactose-free diets.1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the flavor; substitute with lime juice for a different zest.2 cloves garlic, minced infuses the pesto with aromatic flavor; adjust to taste.1 teaspoon sea salt balances flavors; taste and adjust according to dietary needs.¼ teaspoon black pepper enhances taste; freshly ground is recommended. Equipment large potcolanderFood ProcessorMixing Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add in your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.In a food processor, add basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Set aside.In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared pesto. Gently fold in halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, chopped pepperoncini, and parsley. Toss until everything is evenly coated.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a heartier salad, consider adding grilled chicken or seasonal vegetables. Adjust garlic and lemon juice for a personalized flavor boost. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
