As summer approaches and fresh produce bursts into season, I find myself gravitating towards light, refreshing dishes that make the most of those vibrant flavors. That’s how I stumbled upon this delightful creamy pesto pasta salad! Picture this: perfectly cooked spiral pasta enveloped in luscious basil pesto, paired with sweet cherry tomatoes and soft bocconcini, all brought together with a touch of mayonnaise for that extra creaminess.

Whether I’m hosting a backyard BBQ or simply seeking a quick lunch after a busy day, this salad hits the spot. It’s wonderfully versatile, making it easy to switch up the ingredients based on what I have on hand or what’s fresh at the market. Trust me, this dish will quickly become your go-to for potlucks and picnics, providing a crowd-pleasing solution in no time! Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that captures the essence of summer in every bite.

Why is Pesto Pasta Salad a Must-Try?

Vibrant Flavors: Each bite bursts with freshness from basil pesto and ripe cherry tomatoes.

Creamy Texture: The addition of mayonnaise brings an irresistible creaminess.

Quick & Easy: This salad requires minimal prep, perfect for busy summer days.

Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch.

Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser at picnics and potlucks, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.

Get ready to impress your guests with this delightful dish that captures summer on a plate!

Pesto Pasta Salad Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy and delicious pesto pasta salad!

For the Pasta
• Spiral Pasta (350g / 12oz) – Choose a short pasta for better pesto coating.
• Salt (1 tbsp) – Essential for enhancing the pasta’s flavor during cooking.

For the Pesto
• Fresh Basil (2 cups tightly packed) – Provides that aromatic and vibrant flavor.
• Toasted Pine Nuts (2 tbsp) – For a nutty depth; swap with walnuts for a twist.
• Minced Garlic (1 small clove) – Adds a kick; reduce if you prefer a milder taste.
• Grated Parmesan (½ cup) – Incorporates a savory richness; can replace with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
• Olive Oil (7 tbsp) – Keeps the pesto smooth; feel free to add more for a silkier texture.
• Salt & Pepper to taste – Balance the flavors.

For the Salad
• Mayonnaise (2 tbsp) – Adds creaminess while preventing the salad from drying out.
• Cherry Tomatoes (250g / 1 heaped cup) – Sweetness and vibrant color; halved for easy mixing.
• Baby Bocconcini (220g / 7 oz) – Offers a soft, mild flavor; drain and cut before combining.
• Baby Rocket/Arugula (1 cup, tightly packed) – Delivers a fresh, peppery note to the dish.
• Small Basil Leaves – Optional garnish that enhances presentation and flavor.

How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spiral pasta and cook according to packet instructions, adding an extra minute for softness. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool, stopping the cooking process.
Prepare Pesto: In a tall container, combine fresh basil, toasted pine nuts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Using a stick blender, blitz until it’s smooth with a few visible green pieces for texture.
Mix Pasta Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the freshly made pesto and mayonnaise. Stir well, ensuring all the pasta is beautifully coated with that luscious green goodness.
Add Other Ingredients: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and bocconcini, being careful not to mash them. Finally, add the baby rocket/arugula and toss just enough to respect their delicate nature.
Serve: Transfer the pasta salad to a stunning serving bowl. If desired, finish with small basil leaves on top for that extra pop of color and flavor.

Optional: Drizzle with a little olive oil before serving for an added touch of richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Pesto Pasta Salad

Fridge: Keep leftover pesto pasta salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For optimal freshness, consume it within this timeframe.

Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the pasta salad without the mayo for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, then mix in mayonnaise just before enjoying.

Reheating: If you stored it in the freezer, allow it to come to room temperature before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Serving Tip: For the best taste experience, bring the salad to room temperature before serving, especially if it was stored in the fridge.

What to Serve with Pesto Pasta Salad?

This creamy, delicious dish deserves a star-studded lineup of sides to create the perfect meal experience.

Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and complements the creamy salad beautifully.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers balance the flavors of the salad while adding a colorful touch.

Pairing grilled vegetables with pesto pasta salad creates a harmony of fresh, vibrant tastes. The grilled elements lend a rustic edge while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing side that echoes the salad’s ingredients.
Crisp White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc accentuates the basil notes, making it a delightful pairing for a warm summer day.
Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal with a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate and leave a zesty aftertaste, contrasting the creamy richness of the salad.

Consider these pairings to elevate your meal and impress your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These creamy pesto pasta salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and pesto up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the spiral pasta, drain, and rinse it under cold water, then store it in the refrigerator. For the pesto, blend the ingredients and keep it airtight to maintain freshness. Additionally, halve the cherry tomatoes and bocconcini ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, mix the cold pasta with the pesto and mayonnaise, adding the tomatoes, bocconcini, and arugula just before serving to keep the greens vibrant. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful, fresh meal with minimal effort on busy days!

Pesto Pasta Salad Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic pesto pasta salad to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Substitute the pine nuts with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a safer option.
Vegan: Replace mayonnaise with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for that creamy texture without dairy.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your salad a zesty edge.
Extra Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or spinach for an added nutritional punch and vibrant color.
Protein Boost: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make this dish more filling and satisfying.
Cheesy Flavor: Introduce feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist that complements the creamy elements beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill in addition to basil for a multi-layered flavor profile.
Lower Carb: Substitute pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a refreshing, low-carb alternative.

Expert Tips for Pesto Pasta Salad

Cook Time Precision: Ensure to cook the pasta slightly beyond al dente, as it will firm up a bit while cooling, ensuring a delightful texture in your pesto pasta salad.
Blending Techniques: Use a handheld stick blender for the pesto; it’s easier to control the texture and results in a smoother sauce without a mess.
Season with Care: When adding salt to the pasta, remember that the pesto and mayonnaise also contribute flavor—taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your basil and vegetables, the more vibrant your salad will be. Visit your local market for the best selection!
Customizable Mix-ins: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to personalize your pesto pasta salad; this dish thrives on creativity!

Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of pasta is best for pesto pasta salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using spiral pasta like fusilli or rotini, as they hold the pesto sauce beautifully and add some fun texture. Short pasta shapes work best since they mix well with the other ingredients and allow for great sauce adherence.

How should I store leftovers of creamy pesto pasta salad?
You can store leftover creamy pesto pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep it fresh and maintain the best texture, make sure to consume it within this timeframe. Before serving, let it come to room temperature for optimal flavor and creaminess!

Can I freeze pesto pasta salad?
Yes, you can freeze pesto pasta salad! However, I suggest freezing it without the mayonnaise, as it may not thaw well. To freeze, place the salad in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and mix in the mayonnaise just before serving to regain that creamy consistency.

What should I do if my pasta salad is too dry?
If you find that your creamy pesto pasta salad is too dry, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of olive oil or a little more mayonnaise to revive its creaminess. Mix it in gently, ensuring the pasta and veggies are well-coated. This will enhance the flavor as well as the texture, making it even more delightful.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Great question! This creamy pesto pasta salad is vegetarian, making it suitable for those avoiding meat. However, it does contain dairy from the cheese and mayo, so those with lactose intolerance might want to opt for dairy-free substitutes like nutritional yeast for the Parmesan and a plant-based mayo. Additionally, if you have nut allergies, you can replace the pine nuts in the pesto with seeds, such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, for a tasty, allergen-friendly alternative.

What are some great mix-ins for this pasta salad?
The more the merrier! Customize your creamy pesto pasta salad with seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even some grilled chicken or chickpeas if you’re looking for added protein. Fresh herbs like parsley or spinach also add an exciting twist, keeping the salad vibrant and enjoyable for everyone at your table!