Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch or a dish to bring to a potluck, this pesto pasta salad is delicious and easy to make. Made with basil pesto tossed in perfectly cooked pasta noodles, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes!
From start-to-finish, this pesto pasta salad recipe only takes 30 minutes to pull together. It’s perfect for quick meals to eat throughout the week or last-minute get-togethers. Serve this salad as a side dish or on its own.
How to make pesto pasta salad
In 3 easy steps, you’ll have a delicious pasta salad. Detailed ingredient measurements, instructions, and notes can be found on the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, but here’s is a quick summary:
1. Cook the Pasta. Prepare the pasta noodles according to the directions on the packaging. As soon as it's done, drain and poor under cool running water
2. Make the pesto. In a food processor, combine the fresh basil, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. Scoop out of the food processor and set aside.
3. Assemble the pasta salad. In a large bowl, combine noodles, pesto, and the remaining ingredients. Toss until it's well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
Storing for later
This pesto pasta salad keeps well for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to mix, taste, and season before serving, if needed.
Customize it
You can also easily adapt this pasta salad to your favorite ingredients. And if you have dietary needs, just substitute or exclude a few ingredients.
Vegan: Just remove the mozzarella cheese.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta noodles. Be sure to follow the cooking ingredients that come on the packaging.
Nut-free: Skip the pine nuts and add a handful of extra greens.
Greens: Don't have fresh basil? Use another leafy green, such as kale or spinach.
source: https://realandvibrant.com/pesto-pasta-salad/
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