For the most intense flavor, use homemade pesto. However, a high-quality store-bought pesto will also work well. Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a vegan option, substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan with a plant-based alternative or omit them altogether. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving, adding more lemon juice for brightness or salt and pepper as needed.
Pesto Pasta Salad
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME10 mins
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TOTAL TIME20 mins
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS27
A vibrant and refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad, bursting with summer flavors. Tender pasta intertwines with juicy cherry tomatoes, peppery arugula, creamy mozzarella, and a generous coating of fragrant pesto. A touch of lemon brightens the dish, making it an irresistible side or light meal.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate27 g
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Cholesterol16 mg
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Fiber4 g
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Protein13 g
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Saturated Fat6 g
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Sodium612 mg
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Sugar5 g
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Fat24 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPrepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and have them measured and ready to go. (5 minutes)
02
StepCook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente (about 12 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
03
StepCool the Pasta: Drain the pasta and rinse immediately under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy. (2 minutes)
04
StepCombine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, arugula (or spinach), pesto, mozzarella (or feta), Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. (3 minutes)
05
StepAdjust Consistency: Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. If the salad seems dry, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. (2 minutes)
06
StepSeason and Serve: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture, or cover and chill in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. (1 minute)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Barney Deckow
Jun 26, 2025Super versatile! I've tried different veggies each time I make it.
Gregorio Daugherty
Jun 16, 2025I like to add some sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Claudine Schinner
Jun 1, 2025Perfect for meal prepping. Stays fresh for several days.
Dell Pacocha
May 29, 2025I used feta instead of mozzarella, and it was a tangy and tasty alternative.
Romaine Parisian
May 20, 2025My kids even loved it! A great way to get them to eat their greens.
Talia Pfannerstill
Apr 6, 2025The homemade pesto really elevates this salad. Worth the extra effort.
Devan Stehr
Apr 6, 2025A little too much mayo for my taste, I'll reduce it next time.
Abbie Okon
Mar 31, 2025This salad is so easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Heloise Roberts
Mar 21, 2025This is now my go-to pasta salad recipe!
Dahlia Welch
Mar 17, 2025I added some grilled chicken to make it a complete meal – delicious!