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 salad quickly became a summer favorite in my family during our weekend picnics.
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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)
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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 Our family loves sharing this fresh salad on sunny afternoons together.
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Serving Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a light rosé.
Storage Tips
Keep chilled in an airtight container for up to 2 days for best freshness.
Variations
Add sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor or substitute vegan alternatives as desired.
Save 
This cold pasta salad is an effortless crowd-pleaser that brightens any meal.
Common Questions
- → What pasta types work best for this salad?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing well and provide a pleasant bite for this salad.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the salad for up to 2 hours enhances the flavors and keeps it refreshing for serving.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Substitute vegan mozzarella and use pesto without cheese to suit a vegan diet without sacrificing flavor.
- → What garnishes complement the salad?
Fresh torn basil leaves and toasted pine nuts add aroma and crunch, enriching the overall experience.
- → How can I add more depth to the flavors?
Incorporate sliced black olives or sun-dried tomatoes to introduce additional savory and tangy notes.
- → Are there any common allergens in this dish?
This dish contains dairy from mozzarella and pesto, pine nuts if included, and gluten from wheat-based pasta. Gluten-free or nut-free alternatives can be used.
