Pin It A vibrant, refreshing pasta salad featuring tender pasta, creamy mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic basil pesto—perfect for picnics or light lunches.
This cold pasta salad has become my go-to for quick gatherings and potlucks, loved by family and friends alike.
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.
Pin It This dish is always a hit when shared with family on warm afternoons or at picnics.
Notes
For extra flavor, add sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes. Substitute whole-grain or gluten-free pasta if needed. For a vegan option, use vegan mozzarella and pesto without cheese. Pairs well with chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, mixing bowls, whisk, knife and cutting board.
Nutritional Information
Calories 410, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 38 g, Protein 16 g (per serving).
Pin It This salad makes a perfect light meal or a delightful side dish for any occasion.
Your Questions Answered
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the pesto well and provide good texture.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, chilling it for up to 2 hours enhances the flavors, but avoid long refrigeration to keep the pasta texture fresh.
- → How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Substitute fresh mozzarella with vegan cheese and use a dairy-free pesto without cheese.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors?
Fresh basil leaves add aroma and color; toasted pine nuts add crunch and a nutty note.
- → Are there any suggested ingredient swaps?
Try whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs, or add black olives and sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.