Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella
This pesto pasta salad with tomatoes and mozzarella is a fresh, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Made with tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tossed in flavorful basil pesto.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 lb pasta (like rotini, penne or farfalle)
- 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella)
- ¾ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella pearls to the bowl with the pasta.
- Pour the pesto over the mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve, or serve immediately.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- Use your favorite pasta shape – short pasta works best for this salad.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Use fresh homemade pesto for the best flavor.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
