Description
This vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer crowd-pleaser! Featuring fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and toasted pine nuts, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, barbecue, or meal-prepping for the week, this easy, make-ahead salad ensures delicious success every time.
Ingredients
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12 oz pasta (rotini or fusilli) — short pasta holds pesto better
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1/2 cup basil pesto — store-bought or homemade
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1 cup cherry tomatoes — halved for burst flavor
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1 cup fresh mozzarella balls — mini or bocconcini
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1/4 cup pine nuts — toasted for richer taste
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2 tbsp olive oil — to loosen pesto if needed
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1/4 cup Parmesan cheese — freshly grated preferred
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Salt and pepper — to taste
Instructions
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Boil the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. -
Prepare the Pesto Dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the basil pesto and olive oil. Add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water if a thinner consistency is desired. -
Assemble the Salad:
Toss the cooled pasta gently with the pesto dressing until fully coated. Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and toasted pine nuts. -
Finish and Season:
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the salad. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss again lightly and taste for final adjustments.
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Serve or Store:
Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container. Refresh with a little extra pesto or olive oil before serving if needed.
Notes
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Make Ahead Tip:
Prepare a day in advance and refresh with a little extra pesto before serving for the brightest flavor. -
Variation Ideas:
Add grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or sun-dried tomatoes for exciting twists. -
Pro Tip:
A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors beautifully!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: lunch
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 15g
Keywords: Pesto Pasta Salad