Go Back
+ servings
Pesto Pasta Salad

Irresistible Pesto Pasta Salad: Celebrate Flavor and Freshness

A delightful Pesto Pasta Salad that combines vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces pasta gluten-free pasta can be used
  • 1 cup balsamic sweet peppers use roasted red or yellow if necessary
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls can be replaced with dairy-free mozzarella for vegan option
  • ½ cup pesto homemade or store-bought, dairy-free option available
  • ¼ cup olive oil extra virgin recommended
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For Preparation
  • as needed chilled water to rinse pasta

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-By-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking.
  2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped balsamic sweet peppers, and mozzarella pearls.
  3. Add the Pesto and Olive Oil: Drizzle pesto over the pasta mixture and follow with olive oil to bind the ingredients.
  4. Season the Salad: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture to taste.
  5. Toss and Combine: Gently toss all ingredients together with a spatula or wooden spoon.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss again and serve it on a festive platter or bowls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg

Notes

This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings or as a light meal.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!