This Fresh and Easy Pesto Pasta Salad is a quick and tasty dish bursting with flavor! It combines pasta with vibrant basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese.
You can whip this salad up in no time, making it perfect for busy days or potlucks. Trust me, your friends will ask for seconds—it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini for its great shape that holds the pesto. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or farfalle if rotini isn’t available. Gluten-free pasta works too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor! If you prefer, grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes can be used. For a kick, try adding sun-dried tomatoes.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture pairs well with the pesto. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella. Vegan mozzarella is a good substitute too.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade pesto is fantastic if you have fresh basil, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan. Feel free to use a nut-free pesto for allergies.
How Can I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Pasta Salad?
Letting your pasta salad chill is key! This allows all the ingredients to blend together, intensifying the flavors. Follow these steps:
- After mixing, cover the salad and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—ideally an hour or more.
- Before serving, give your salad a taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty touch right before serving.
Fresh and Easy Pesto Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or mini balls
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal or side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process. Set it aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and chopped red onion. Gently mix everything together to combine the ingredients well.
3. Mix in the Dressing:
Add the basil pesto and olive oil to the bowl with the pasta and other ingredients. Toss everything gently but thoroughly until the pasta is nicely coated with the pesto. This adds a vibrant flavor to your salad!
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste, and give it another gentle mix. This step is important to bring out all the flavors!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pasta salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This marinating time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
6. Enjoy!
Dig into your fresh and easy pesto pasta salad. It’s a perfect side dish or a light meal that’s full of vibrant flavors. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Fresh and Easy Pesto Pasta Salad
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Cook it according to package instructions, and follow the same steps for the salad. The flavors will still shine through!
How Long Will This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and you may want to add a drizzle of olive oil or extra pesto for flavor freshness!
What Can I Substitute for Basil Pesto?
If you’re out of pesto, you can use store-bought sun-dried tomato pesto or make a quick homemade version with blended spinach, nuts, olive oil, and garlic. You could also try a vinaigrette for a different flavor profile!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. The beauty of this pasta salad is that it’s versatile—make it your own!
