6-Ingredient Pesto Pasta Salad in 20 Minutes
This 6-ingredient pesto pasta salad is a fresh, vibrant dish that comes together in just 20 minutes. With herby pesto, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, it’s a quick, flavor-packed side or light meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this easy pesto pasta salad is a staple all year round.
Ingredients
- 12 oz short-cut pasta rotini, fusilli, or penne
- ½ cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls bocconcini or ciliegine, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- While pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Transfer cooled pasta to a large bowl and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the pesto until pasta is well coated.
- Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, olives, or arugula to customize.
- Use sun-dried tomato pesto or red pepper flakes for a bold twist.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works well too.
- Store in the fridge up to 3 days; refresh with olive oil or pesto before serving.