Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe

Author: Calvin Rourke Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings Category: Pasta

Description

A vibrant and adaptable pesto pasta salad, perfect for potlucks and quick dinners, featuring al dente pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.

Ingredients

  • 12–16 ounces short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1–2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced or in small balls
  • 1/4–1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped or thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: lemon zest, toasted pine nuts, or chopped fresh basil for garnish
Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

  1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente.
  2. 2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold running water.
  3. 3. Toss the cooled pasta with olive oil.
  4. 4. Add pesto to the pasta and mix gently to coat evenly.
  5. 5. Fold in cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and Parmesan; season with salt and pepper.
  6. 6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. 7. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish as desired.