Pesto Pasta Salad with Tomatoes & Mozzarella

A vibrant pasta salad bursting with flavors, perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner parties, made with pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pesto.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Lunch, Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 oz pasta (farfalle, fusilli, or penne) Choose your favorite type of pasta.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds a fresh, juicy flavor.
1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini) Cheese adds creaminess.
1 cup basil pesto Can be homemade or store-bought.
to taste Salt & pepper Adjust seasoning according to your preference.

Garnish

Fresh basil Optional for garnish.

Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool slightly.

Mixing Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the basil pesto until well combined.
Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Chilling the Salad

Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors meld. If you can hold off, let it chill longer.

Notes

This pasta salad can be served in a glass bowl to showcase its colorful layers and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Keyword Easy Salad, Italian Cuisine, Pasta Salad, Pesto Recipe, Quick Lunch