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Pesto pasta salad is my go to dish for picnics and last minute dinners The fragrance of basil pesto tossed with juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese makes every bite feel like summer Whether you need something fast yet impressive or crave a meal bursting with Italian flavors this salad delivers
I whipped this up for a friends birthday potluck without much planning and now it is the most requested dish among my group Especially when the weather heats up nothing is easier or tastier
Ingredients
- Spiral pasta: This shape catches every bit of pesto and gives the salad a satisfying bite Look for bronze cut varieties for extra sauce cling
- Salt for pasta cooking: A generous amount seasons the noodles deeply Choose sea salt for pure taste
- Basil pesto: The star ingredient brings herby brightness Be sure to use a freshly made or quality store bought pesto with fragrant basil and real Parmigiano
- Cherry tomatoes halved: These add juicy pops of flavor and color Pick tomatoes that are firm and deep red for the sweetest taste
- Fresh arugula: Peppery greens give the salad freshness and pleasant bite Select leaves that look crisp with no yellowing
- Bocconcini: Small mozzarella balls add creamy richness Opt for the freshest bocconcini you can find for soft texture
- Mayonnaise: A spoonful adds silkiness and helps the pesto cling to the noodles
- Toasted pine nuts: For garnish they provide crunch and a nutty edge Toast them gently until golden brown
- Fresh basil leaves: Extra basil boosts aroma and gives a pretty finish Choose leaves with no bruises for best appearance
Step by Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook spiral pasta in a large pot of vigorously boiling water with plenty of salt Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and continue until the pasta is just al dente This creates the ideal chewy texture
- Cool the Pasta:
- Drain pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process Spread the pasta in a large mixing bowl so it cools quickly and evenly
- Mix the Salad:
- Add the basil pesto and mayonnaise to the cooled pasta Toss gently until every noodle is coated Then fold in the halved cherry tomatoes bocconcini and arugula Turn with a broad spatula from the bottom up so ingredients are evenly distributed without breaking up the cheese
- Finish and Serve:
- Mound the tossed salad onto a serving plate Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and scatter whole basil leaves on top for a fresh aroma and inviting look
There is nothing like the creaminess bocconcini brings to the salad It soaks in the pesto and acts like mini flavor bombs My kids always sneak extra cheese from the bowl before I can even mix everything together and that happy chaos means the salad is about to disappear fast
Storage Tips
This salad keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best texture add the arugula just before serving as it can wilt when stored Try tossing leftovers with a little extra pesto to reinvigorate the flavors
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find bocconcini use cubed fresh mozzarella or even feta for tang Switch arugula with baby spinach for a milder taste Sun dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers are lovely extras for more depth Try walnuts instead of pine nuts in the garnish for a budget friendly crunch
Serving Suggestions
Serve this alongside grilled chicken or seafood for a complete meal It also fits beautifully on a buffet next to antipasti like olives and cured meats For parties I sometimes scoop portions into small cups for a cheerful finger food option
A Taste of Italy
Pesto pasta salad brings together two Italian classics in one bowl While pesto started in Liguria in Northern Italy the simple pasta salad variation is now loved around the world Combining these flavors is my way of bringing a bit of Mediterranean sunshine to any table
FAQs about Recipes
- → What type of pasta works best?
Spiral pasta is recommended for holding the pesto and other ingredients, but penne or fusilli also work well.
- → Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely! Homemade basil pesto enhances freshness and flavor, though store-bought is also convenient.
- → How do I keep the pasta from sticking?
After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water to cool and separate the noodles before tossing with other ingredients.
- → Are there substitutions for bocconcini?
Mini mozzarella balls or diced fresh mozzarella are great alternatives for a similar creamy texture.
- → What makes this salad ideal for gatherings?
It's easy to prepare ahead, serves chilled or at room temperature, and features vibrant colors and flavors.