Pesto Pasta Salad

Name: Pesto Pasta Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (such as cavatelli or penne); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion; 1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini; 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley; 3 cups basil leaves; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup pine nuts; 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

By:

Elena Brooks

March 17, 2026

Delicious pesto pasta salad with fresh vegetables and herbs.

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Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe: A Flavorful Delight for Any Occasion

Nothing encapsulates summertime joy like a vibrant bowl of Pesto Pasta Salad. This dish brings together the lush, aromatic flavors of fresh basil and creamy mozzarella, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a festive family picnic, this salad is both satisfying and simple to make. It’s a dish that evokes memories of gathering with loved ones, enjoying good food and laughter—and frankly, it’s hard not to indulge in seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There’s so much to appreciate about Pesto Pasta Salad. Not only is it a breeze to whip up, but it also checks off several boxes—it’s budget-friendly, packed with flavor, and adored by both kids and adults alike. This dish is perfect for various occasions: serve it at summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a delightful side for your family brunch.

“This Pesto Pasta Salad has become a must-make recipe in our house! It’s fresh, colorful, and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers!” — A Satisfied Home Cook

How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad

Creating this delicious salad is a straightforward process that combines fresh ingredients with minimal cooking involved. Here’s what to expect:

Cook the pasta: You’ll start by boiling the pasta to perfection.
Prepare the pesto: While the pasta is cooking, whip up the homemade basil pesto.
Assemble the salad: Mix everything together for a delightful melding of flavors.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the ingredients!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll gather for a scrumptious Pesto Pasta Salad:

1 pound pasta (such as cavatelli or penne)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped pepperoncini
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
3 cups basil leaves
1/2 cup olive oil
1/3 cup pine nuts
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta or use walnuts instead of pine nuts for a different twist!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until tender, according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse well under cold water to halt the cooking process.
Make the pesto: While the pasta cooks, prepare the basil pesto. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. Scoop and set aside.
Assemble the pasta salad: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoncini, and parsley. Toss everything until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Pesto Pasta Salad shines brightest when it’s at the center of your table! Consider serving it cold for that refreshing touch, and pair it with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a pop of color, serve it on a beautiful platter garnished with additional basil or colorful edible flowers.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Pesto Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy the leftovers, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving. Note: it’s best to avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the fresh ingredients can change once frozen.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Always rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This helps maintain that al dente texture.
For an extra flavor boost, toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet before adding them to the pesto. This brings out a nutty richness that elevates the entire dish!
If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto can be a great alternative for a quicker prep.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get adventurous with this recipe! Mix in roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for extra layers of flavor. For a protein punch, add grilled shrimp or chicken. Vegetarian? Swap out the mozzarella for chickpeas or cannellini beans for a hearty touch.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to prepare?
The total prep time for this dish is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

2. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you love works well here. Try fusilli, farfalle, or even whole grain pasta for added fiber.

3. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for a few days, making it great for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

With these steps and insights, you’re all set to make a delightful Pesto Pasta Salad that will leave everyone asking for more. Get ready to enjoy the burst of flavors and the joy of sharing this beautiful dish!