The Best Pasta Salad with Pesto: A Fresh and Flavorful Recipe You’ll Love

Pasta salad with pesto is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying comfort. Whether you’re planning a family picnic, a BBQ, or simply want a quick and tasty dish for lunch, this pasta salad will never disappoint. Packed with fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and pine nuts, the pesto adds an extra burst of flavor to your everyday pasta salad, transforming it into a gourmet delight.

In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of making the most delicious and easy-to-make Pasta Salad with Pesto. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is foolproof and can be customized to suit your tastes. Let’s dive into this refreshing and vibrant recipe!

Ingredients:

For this Pasta Salad with Pesto, you’ll need simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pesto:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a cheaper alternative)
• 2-3 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added zing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta Salad:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls or bocconcini, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced (optional for extra freshness)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Begin by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the instructions on the package, but be sure to cook it al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to keep the pasta from becoming too sticky.
2. Make the Pesto:
   While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to make the pesto. In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors, but this step is optional. Taste the pesto and season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Assemble the Pasta Salad:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the pesto. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the pesto sauce. Add in the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and cucumber. Gently toss everything together to combine, making sure the pesto evenly coats all of the ingredients.
4. Chill and Serve:
   To enhance the flavors, cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling allows the pesto to infuse into the pasta, making each bite more flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad with Pesto:

• Choose the Right Pasta: The type of pasta you use matters. Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli are ideal because their grooves help the pesto cling better.
• Use Fresh Basil: For the best flavor, always use fresh basil in your pesto. It’s what gives the pesto that distinct, aromatic flavor.
• Customize Your Salad: Add other vegetables like roasted bell peppers, olives, or spinach to make the salad even more colorful and flavorful.
• Make Ahead: This pasta salad with pesto can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen and improve with time!
• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, simply swap out the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad with Pesto:

This Pasta Salad with Pesto is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. The nutty and fragrant pesto brings a burst of flavor to the pasta, and the fresh vegetables and mozzarella make it a well-rounded meal or side dish. It’s perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to a weeknight dinner.

Plus, it’s a great dish to prepare in advance, which means less stress when hosting a gathering or family meal. It’s simple, quick, and guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Can I make this Pasta Salad with Pesto in advance?
Yes! This pasta salad actually tastes better when made ahead. Prepare it a few hours or the night before and let it chill in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I freeze Pasta Salad with Pesto?
While the pasta and pesto can technically be frozen, the texture of the salad may change once thawed, especially the fresh vegetables and cheese. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a few days of making.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought pesto is a great alternative. However, making your own fresh pesto takes this pasta salad to the next level.

Conclusion:

This Pasta Salad with Pesto is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves fresh, flavorful dishes that are easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a vibrant, refreshing salad perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a weeknight meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress.

Don’t forget to customize it to your liking and enjoy the wonderful burst of flavors in every bite. Happy cooking!