There’s something magical about a dish that combines fresh basil, creamy mozzarella, and sweet cherry tomatoes with perfectly cooked pasta. Pesto pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a picnic, this salad checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love Pesto Pasta Salad

This pesto pasta salad is more than just a side dish. It’s a burst of flavor and texture in every bite. Here’s why it’s worth making:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Packed with Flavor: Fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan create a mouthwatering pesto.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for potlucks, picnics, or as a light dinner.

Ingredients for Pesto Pasta Salad

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious salad:

Ingredient	Quantity
Penne pasta (cooked al dente)	8 oz
Pine nuts	2 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Sweet basil (packed)	1 cup
Olive oil	1/4 cup
Parmesan cheese (grated)	1/4 cup
Cherry tomatoes (halved)	1 cup
Fresh mozzarella (cubed)	1 cup
Sea salt and black pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Heat a large pot of water over high heat, adding a generous pinch of salt.
2. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside in a large bowl.

2. Toast the Pine Nuts

1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Add pine nuts and toast until golden, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Make the Pesto

1. Add toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, and fresh basil to a blender or food processor.
2. Process until smooth.
3. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully combined.
4. Stir in grated parmesan cheese, sea salt, and black pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Salad

1. Toss the cooked pasta with the fresh pesto until evenly coated.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes and cubed mozzarella, gently folding them into the pasta.
3. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves.
2. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for a chilled salad.

Tips for Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and quality parmesan cheese make all the difference.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the salad and absorbs the pesto without getting mushy.
• Customize to Your Taste: Add other veggies, like arugula or bell peppers, for extra flavor.

Creative Variations

1. Add Protein

• Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.

2. Try Different Nuts

• Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for a unique twist.

3. Make It Vegan

• Use a dairy-free parmesan alternative and swap mozzarella for marinated tofu cubes.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Pair with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
• For a Picnic: Pack it in a cooler for a fresh and easy meal on the go.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy it on its own with a slice of crusty bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and toss with a little extra olive oil before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify over time.

3. Can I freeze pesto pasta salad?

It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze the pesto separately for up to 3 months.

4. What other pasta shapes can I use?

Bowtie, fusilli, or rotini pasta work just as well as penne.

5. Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto is a quick and convenient alternative. Look for high-quality options for the best flavor.

6. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss the drained pasta with a drizzle of olive oil before mixing it with the pesto.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 cup)
Calories	~320
Protein	~10g
Fat	~18g
Carbohydrates	~30g
Fiber	~2g

Bring a Taste of Italy to Your Table

Pesto pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this salad is sure to impress.

Ready to make your own? Gather your ingredients, grab your blender, and let’s get cooking!

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