This easy pesto pasta salad is fresh, vibrant, and comes together in minutes! 🍅🧀 Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and tender pasta are tossed in a zesty homemade pesto and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan. Perfect as a side dish, potluck favorite, or make-ahead lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Swap ingredients, add veggies, or protein to make it your own.
- Perfect for Summer: Fresh, colorful, and served cold, it’s ideal for BBQs or picnics.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Pasta salad flavors meld beautifully when chilled.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
- 1 lb dry rotini pasta
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 Tbsp fresh basil, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- Shredded parmesan cheese, for serving
For the Kale Pesto:
- 1 cup kale leaves, chopped (or spinach/arugula)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2½ Tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Pesto: Blend all pesto ingredients in a food processor until smooth. Set aside. (Skip if using store-bought.)
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and let cool.
- Toss Salad: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, onion, and basil. Add pesto and toss until fully coated.
- Serve: Sprinkle with parmesan and extra basil. Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Toast Pine Nuts: Spread on a baking sheet and toast at 375°F for 5–6 minutes until golden.
- Veggie Additions: Summer squash, zucchini, or asparagus work beautifully.
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or Italian sausage.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Why This Pesto Pasta Salad Works
It’s fresh, flavorful, and customizable. The homemade pesto brings garlicky, herbaceous depth, while the tomatoes and mozzarella keep it light and summery. Make it ahead for an effortless meal or bring it to your next potluck for a guaranteed hit!