Save A vibrant, refreshing pasta salad featuring tender pasta, creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto—perfect for picnics or light lunches.
This pasta salad quickly became a staple at our family gatherings because everyone loves the burst of fresh flavors and the creamy mozzarella.
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 (bocconcini or ciliegine), 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
- 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.
Save This salad is perfect for family picnics, with everyone reaching for seconds thanks to its fresh and vibrant flavors.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 16 g protein.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio and crusty Italian bread.
Variations
Add sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Save Enjoy this dish as a quick lunch or a delightful side for your summer dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the pesto well and offer a pleasant texture for this salad.
- → Can I prepare the pesto dressing from scratch?
Yes, homemade basil pesto with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil enhances flavor, but store-bought works well too.
- → How do I keep the pasta from sticking after cooking?
Rinse the pasta under cold water immediately after draining to cool and stop cooking, preventing it from sticking together.
- → What are good garnishes to complement the flavors?
Fresh basil leaves add aroma and color, while toasted pine nuts provide a crunchy texture that balances the creamy mozzarella.
- → Is this dish suitable for special diets?
It is vegetarian by default. For vegan options, use dairy-free mozzarella and pesto without cheese. Gluten-free pasta can also be used.