Irresistible Basil Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Basil Pesto Pasta Salad is the life of any picnic party, bursting with vibrant colors and flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine al dente pasta twirled around fresh basil, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all drizzled with a rich, aromatic pesto sauce. It’s like a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for summer barbecues or spontaneous family gatherings. Each bite takes you on a journey through sun-kissed fields of basil and zesty parmesan, leaving you craving more.

Whenever I whip up this delightful dish, it reminds me of lazy Sunday afternoons spent with friends, laughing over good food and sipping chilled lemonade. This Basil Pesto Pasta Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a canvas for memories waiting to happen. Whether it’s served as a side or the star of the show at your next get-together, prepare yourself for an explosion of flavors that will make you the talk of the town.

There’s nothing quite like watching my family devour this dish with wide-eyed enthusiasm—it brings joy to my heart every time.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Opt for rotini or penne; their shapes hold onto the pesto beautifully.

• Fresh Basil: Use bright green leaves; they provide the freshest flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty richness that enhances every bite.

• Pine Nuts: Toast them lightly for added crunch and depth.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a luxurious mouthfeel and flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings zing; adjust according to your taste preference.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness balances the savory elements beautifully.

• Mozzarella Balls: Use fresh ones for creaminess that melts in your mouth.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over medium heat. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.

Add Olive Oil Gradually: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until everything forms a smooth paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with pesto sauce while it’s still warm. Toss well so every noodle gets coated in that vibrant green goodness.

Add Fresh Ingredients: Gently fold in cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls into your pasta salad mixture. Be careful not to crush them—nobody wants a mushy salad!

Chill Before Serving (Optional): If you have time, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those flavors to mingle beautifully.

And there you have it! A delightful Basil Pesto Pasta Salad ready to impress your guests or simply enjoy on your own after a long day!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta al dente; then, prepare the pesto while it cools. Mix everything together and let the flavors meld for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this salad! Add cherry tomatoes, grilled chicken, or even some nuts for extra crunch. Experiment with various cheeses too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best flavor, enjoy it cold without reheating.

This recipe takes me back to my first summer barbecue with friends where I nervously presented my Basil Pesto Pasta Salad. They devoured it and insisted I make it for every gathering since!

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Certainly! Store-bought pesto can save time without sacrificing flavor.

How long can I keep Basil Pesto Pasta Salad?

You can enjoy it refrigerated for up to three days.

What ingredients can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives to elevate your salad’s taste.

Print

Basil Pesto Pasta Salad

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Basil Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted)
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• Salt & pepper to taste

---

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. In a food processor, combine basil, toasted pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Gradually add olive oil while pulsing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine warm pasta with pesto sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Gently fold in cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
6. For enhanced flavor, chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No cooking required
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding grilled chicken or avocado for extra protein. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; best enjoyed cold.