Pesto Pasta Salad: The BEST Easy Vegetarian Summer Recipe

Pesto pasta salad is the ultimate make ahead dish for your next picnic, potluck, or barbecue! This vibrant and flavorful vegetarian pasta salad is bursting with fresh pesto, juicy tomatoes, and tender mozzarella balls. I remember my first time making pesto pasta salad. It was for a summer picnic, and I was determined to impress everyone with my culinary skills. Let me tell you, this recipe was a hit, and it’s been a family favorite ever since.

Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a delicious side dish, this pesto pasta salad is the perfect choice. I think you’ll love it as much as I do! And because it’s served cold, it makes it perfect for those hot summer days.

Why You Will Love This pesto pasta salad Recipe

This pesto pasta salad recipe is pure comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors that will brighten any meal! One thing I particularly love is its simplicity its ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last minute gatherings.

The combination of the rich pesto, sweet tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella is absolutely heavenly. This recipe also comes in handy any time of the year, but it tastes especially refreshing during summer. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. Add your favorite grilled vegetables, beans, or even some protein to make it a complete meal.

Plus, it’s an easy vegetarian recipe that even meat eaters will enjoy. Make sure to bookmark this page and save it for later.

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Ingredients Needed for This pesto pasta salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make my vibrant pesto pasta salad:

• 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work great)
• 1 cup fresh pesto (homemade or store bought)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make This pesto pasta salad Recipe

Let’s get started on this delightful pesto pasta salad! The instructions are as easy as 1, 2, 3.

1. 1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This is really important to avoid mushy pasta!

1. 2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, Parmesan cheese, and toasted pine nuts.

1. 3. Dress the salad: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Be gentle so you don’t crush the mozzarella!

1. 4. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it chills, the better it tastes! This is what makes it the perfect cold pasta salad for any occasion.

How to Serve This pesto pasta salad Recipe

This pesto pasta salad is fantastic on its own as a light lunch or a side dish. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat, especially during the summer.

Here are some serving ideas:

• Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a complete meal.
• Serve it alongside a simple salad or soup.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for an elegant presentation.

You might also enjoy this summer pasta salad with a side of our Amazing Avocado Pesto Pasta, for double the pesto goodness.

How to Store This pesto pasta salad Recipe

Proper storage is key to keeping your pesto pasta salad fresh and delicious.

• Refrigeration: Store the pesto pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and mozzarella can become mushy upon thawing.
• Reheating: No need to reheat! This dish is best served cold.

Tips to Make This pesto pasta salad Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your pesto pasta salad turns out perfectly every time:

• Ingredient swaps: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Sun dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, or artichoke hearts would all be great additions.
• Success tips: Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the salad.
• Common mistakes to avoid: Be careful not to overdress the salad. Start with less dressing and add more to taste.
• Pro tips for best results: Toast the pine nuts for enhanced flavor and crunch. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown.

Why not try this same recipe, but with a creamy twist? If you are interested in a creamy version of this recipe, try our Creamy Pasta Salad.

Helpful Notes for This pesto pasta salad Recipe

A few extra details to keep in mind:

• Ingredient details: For the best flavor, use high quality pesto. Homemade pesto is ideal, but store bought works too.
• Equipment recommendations: A large mixing bowl, a pot for cooking pasta, and a strainer are all you’ll need.
• Always be sure to store this amazing dish in a sealed container, so that it does not dry out.

Variation of This pesto pasta salad Recipe

Here are some fun ways to switch up this classic pesto pasta salad:

• Seasonal twists: Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a fall or winter version.
• Optional versions: Make it a protein packed meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
• Creative modifications: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

If pesto doesn’t fulfill your needs, you can always try our Ultimate Grilled Balsamic Steak Salad 2.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this vibrant and delicious pesto pasta salad as much as I do. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, and it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a burst of fresh flavors! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your pesto pasta salad turns out. Happy cooking!

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