Tomato Pesto Pasta Salad
This pasta salad features juicy cherry tomatoes, tender pasta, and a bright basil pesto dressing. Tossed with fresh herbs and optional Mediterranean add-ins like mozzarella and olives, it’s a light yet satisfying dish you can enjoy warm or cold.
Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Salad
12 oz (340 g) short pasta (fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
½ cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
2 tbsp pine nuts or walnuts, toasted
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
For the Pesto Dressing
½ cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook pasta until al dente (check package directions).
Drain, rinse briefly under cool water, and set aside.
2. Make the Pesto Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, and red onion.
Pour over the pesto dressing and toss gently.
Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil.
4. Chill & Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Notes & Tips
Make It Vegan: Use dairy-free pesto and skip the mozzarella (or use vegan mozzarella).
Add More Veggies: Zucchini ribbons, roasted bell peppers, or spinach are great additions.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Meal Prep Tip: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days; stir in extra olive oil before serving if it looks dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes — just use gluten-free pasta.
Q: Can I serve it warm instead of cold?
A: Definitely! It works both ways.
Q: What’s the best pasta shape for this?
A: Fusilli and farfalle hold pesto well, but penne also works.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 395
Protein: 13g
Carbs: 44g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 420mg