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 cold pasta salad has been a favorite at our family gatherings, loved by both kids and adults for its fresh ingredients and vibrant tastes.
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
- 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 always brings smiles at our family picnics and summer parties, making it a treasured dish in our home.
Variations
Try adding sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor or substitute with vegan mozzarella and pesto for a dairy-free version.
Storage Tips
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add pine nuts fresh before serving to maintain crunch.
Pairings
Enjoy with chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light lemonade for a perfect meal.
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A perfect dish to brighten your table and please your palate with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle holds the pesto dressing well and provides a nice texture.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, chilling the salad for up to 2 hours allows flavors to meld and keeps it refreshingly cool.
- → How can I make it vegan-friendly?
Use vegan mozzarella alternatives and pesto made without cheese to keep the dish plant-based.
- → Are there suggested garnishes?
Fresh basil leaves and toasted pine nuts add aroma and crunch, enhancing the salad’s taste.
- → What additions can boost the flavor?
Try adding sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth and richness.