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+ servings
Basil Pesto Pasta Salad

Delicious Basil Pesto Pasta Salad Ready in 20 Minutes

This Basil Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of vibrant basil and fresh ingredients, perfect for hot days.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves can swap with arugula for a peppery twist
  • 1/3 cup pine nuts can use walnuts or sunflower seeds
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese replace with nutritional yeast for a vegan option
  • 2 cloves minced garlic garlic powder works in a pinch
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil mild avocado oil is a great substitute
For the Salad
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta or preferred shape like bow tie or orecchiette
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes can dice bell peppers for added crunch
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls opt for dairy-free mozzarella for a vegan salad

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • colander
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Make the Pesto: Add fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic into a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, then drizzle in olive oil while running the processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook rotini pasta according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. Toss gently until evenly coated.
  4. Serve or Chill: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to meld flavors. Toss before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

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