Cold Pasta Salad Pesto

A vibrant, refreshing pasta salad featuring tender pasta, creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto—perfect for picnics or light lunches.

I enjoy making this salad during the summer months when fresh basil and tomatoes are in season. It always reminds me of family picnics and sunny afternoons.

Ingredients

• Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (e.g., fusilli, penne, or farfalle), salt for boiling water
• Vegetables & Cheese: 250 g (9 oz) cherry tomatoes halved, 200 g (7 oz) fresh mozzarella balls drained and halved, 1/4 red onion thinly sliced optional
• Pesto Dressing: 60 g (1/4 cup) basil pesto store-bought or homemade, 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Garnish: fresh basil leaves torn, 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts optional

Instructions

Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

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Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion if using.

Step 3:

In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 4:

Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5:

Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and pine nuts if desired.

Step 6:

Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.

Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Make fresh ice for iced coffee, cocktails, chilling ingredients, and keeping drinks cold while cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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This salad has become a staple at our family gatherings especially on warm sunny days when everyone is craving something light and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also works wonderfully as a side dish for summer barbecues.

Storage Tips

The salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the texture of the pasta and mozzarella.

Variations

Add sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Swap pine nuts with toasted walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.

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Deep clean greasy stovetops, countertops, sinks, and tiles using powerful steam after everyday cooking.

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This cold pasta salad is a refreshing and easy dish that brightens any meal with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors.

Recipe FAQs

→ What types of pasta work best for this dish?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing well and retain a pleasant texture when cooled.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, it can be chilled for up to 2 hours before serving, allowing flavors to meld nicely.

→ What are good ingredient substitutions?

Try whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs, and use vegan mozzarella and pesto to suit vegan preferences.

→ How can I add extra flavor to this preparation?

Consider adding sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for an additional burst of flavor.

→ What garnishes enhance the dish?

Fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts add aroma and a satisfying crunch.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it fits vegetarian diets, though pesto and mozzarella contain dairy products.