Pesto Pasta Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish perfect for warm days or casual gatherings. This salad combines the delightful flavors of pesto, fresh vegetables, and pasta, making it a colorful and tasty meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as a side dish or a main course.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Pesto Pasta Salad is a great choice for busy folks who want something quick and satisfying. It uses simple ingredients you can easily find at your local store, and it’s ready in just a short time. This recipe is also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite veggies or add proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Plus, it tastes great chilled, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.
How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, and feta cheese.
- Add the pesto sauce and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your refreshing pesto pasta salad!
How to Serve Pesto Pasta Salad
Pesto Pasta Salad can be served chilled or at room temperature. It’s great as a side dish for grilled meats or as a light main course. You can also pack it for lunch or serve it at gatherings. Just make sure to mix it well before serving to refresh the flavors.
How to Store Pesto Pasta Salad
To store Pesto Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you notice the pasta absorbing the pesto sauce after a day or two, simply add a little more pesto or olive oil to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Pesto Pasta Salad
- For more flavor, try roasting the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the salad.
- Use whole-grain pasta for a healthier option.
- If you prefer a creamier salad, mix in a little mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the pesto.
Variation
You can personalize your Pesto Pasta Salad by adding ingredients like grilled chicken, shrimp, or different vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or arugula. Feel free to switch the feta cheese with mozzarella for a creamier texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works great and saves time. You can also make your own if you prefer a homemade touch.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based pesto and skip the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pesto Pasta Salad is perfect for making ahead of time. Just keep it in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve whenever you need it.
Pesto Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, and feta cheese.
- Add the pesto sauce and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.