Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

This easy Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella comes together in minutes and is packed with flavor! Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish features fresh tomatoes and mozzarella all tossed in a homemade pesto. It’s not just delicious; it’s also versatile and great for leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 26 minutes, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and homemade pesto ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, a main course, or pack it for lunch the next day—it’s perfect for any occasion!
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather your tools beforehand. Having the right equipment will help you prepare this delicious salad more efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for quickly blending the pesto ingredients into a smooth sauce.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta effectively without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta easily after cooking to prevent sogginess.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space to toss all ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 lb. dry rotini pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 8 oz. fresh mozzarella pearls
• ¼ of a red onion, sliced thin
• 2 Tbsp fresh basil, sliced (plus more for serving)
• Shredded parmesan cheese, for serving

For the Pesto

• 1 cup kale leaves, chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted (see notes section for toasting instructions)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2½ Tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

Step 1: Make the Pesto

1. Add the pesto ingredients (kale leaves, fresh basil, olive oil, shredded parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper) to a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth. Set aside while you prepare the pasta salad.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot according to package directions.
2. Add the dry rotini pasta and cook until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with sliced cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, sliced red onion, and fresh basil.
2. Pour your desired amount of pesto over the top.
3. Toss everything together until fully coated.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve immediately by sprinkling each bowl with shredded parmesan cheese and extra basil if desired.
2. Alternatively, cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it.

With these simple steps, you can easily create a vibrant Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella that will delight your family and friends! Enjoy!

How to Serve Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

This pesto pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• A generous serving of the pesto pasta salad can stand alone as a satisfying main dish. The addition of mozzarella and fresh veggies creates a balanced meal.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or fish. It complements the flavors beautifully and adds a refreshing touch to your plate.

For Meal Prep

• Divide the pasta salad into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. It keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for busy days.

With Extra Toppings

• Add extra toppings like olives, arugula, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture. These additions can enhance the overall experience of the salad.

At Picnics and BBQs

• This pasta salad is ideal for outdoor gatherings. Serve it chilled alongside burgers or hot dogs for a refreshing side that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

Creating the perfect pesto pasta salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and basil make a huge difference in flavor. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just until al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture when mixed with other ingredients.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Pesto to Taste: Start with a smaller amount of pesto and add more as needed. This allows you to control the level of flavor intensity in your salad.
• Add Crunch: Consider adding toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy mozzarella.
• Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like parsley or cilantro for an additional layer of freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

Complementing your pesto pasta salad with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this salad, adding warmth and richness.
2. Caprese Skewers: Skewers made of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a fun finger food option that echoes flavors from the salad itself.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus bring smoky flavors that complement the bright pesto.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa, beans, or rice make for a hearty addition that’s visually appealing too.
5. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad enhances your meal with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons.
6. Roasted Chickpeas: Spicy roasted chickpeas provide protein and crunch, making them an excellent snack alongside your pasta dish.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the savory notes of the pesto pasta while adding sweetness to your meal.
8. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds brightness and helps cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the cooling step. Not cooling the pasta after cooking can lead to a soggy salad. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Using stale ingredients. Freshness is key! Make sure your tomatoes and basil are at their peak for maximum flavor.
• Overdressing the salad. Adding too much pesto can overpower other flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Ignoring texture balance. A great salad has varied textures. Incorporate crunchy elements like nuts or crispy onions for added interest.
• Not letting it chill before serving. Serving immediately can miss out on the flavors melding together. Let it sit in the fridge for a bit for a tastier dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

• Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy mozzarella and fresh ingredients.
• If necessary, store without cheese, and add fresh mozzarella after thawing.

Reheating Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring gently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella.

Can I make Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better when made ahead, allowing flavors to meld.

What can I use instead of pine nuts in my Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella?

You can substitute sunflower seeds or walnuts if you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor.

How long does Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella stay fresh?

It remains fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in the fridge.

Can I add protein to my Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or turkey makes excellent additions that complement the dish perfectly.

Final Thoughts

The Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect as a side dish or light meal. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, proteins, or even different types of cheese. Try it out today!