Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
The Fresh and Flavorful Dish You’ll Want Every Day!
Let’s talk about the ultimate pesto pasta salad that’s not only delicious but super easy to make: Pesto Pasta Salad! If you love fresh, zesty flavors and a quick recipe you can throw together in no time, this is the dish for you. 🏆
This salad revolves around the star of the show—fresh basil pesto—made with basil, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil. Toss it with perfectly cooked pasta (think fusilli or penne) and mix in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness. The result? A simple yet flavor-packed dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
It’s also super versatile! Want to level it up? Toss in some cherry tomatoes, arugula, or even a handful of olives. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a healthy pasta salad for meal prep, this dish has got you covered.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick and Easy Pasta Salad: Ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy days when you need something fresh and tasty.
- Packed with Flavor: The basil pesto gives every bite a vibrant, herby flavor.
- Great for Meal Prep: This pesto pasta salad gets better as the flavors marinate, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Serve it on its own for a light meal, or pair it as a side dish with your favorite protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. Trust me, once you try this easy pesto pasta salad, it’ll be a favorite on repeat. 💚

Fresh & Zesty Pesto Pasta Salad – A Quick and Delicious Dish!
Ingredients
- 8 oz Fusilli Or Penne Pasta
- ½ Cup Fresh Basil Pesto (Store-Bought Or Homemade)
- ⅓ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Chopped
- ¼ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 Cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved
- 1 Cup Arugula (Optional, For Extra Freshness)
- Olive Oil For Drizzling
- Salt And Pepper To Taste
- Optional: ½ Cup Olives Or Toasted Pine Nuts For Extra Crunch
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the PastaBring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and let it cool slightly.
- Step 2: Make the Pesto (if homemade)If you’re making your own basil pesto, blend together 2 cups of fresh basil, ¼ cup pine nuts, 2 garlic cloves, ½ cup olive oil, and ½ cup grated parmesan until smooth.
- Step 3: Toss the IngredientsIn a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, basil pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: Add ToppingsSprinkle the salad with grated parmesan and toss in any optional ingredients like olives or toasted pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!Serve immediately or refrigerate for later. This pesto pasta salad is delicious served chilled or at room temperature—perfect for picnics, meal prep, or a light summer meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pesto pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a toss before serving. - What other veggies can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Add cucumbers, roasted bell peppers, or even avocado for extra freshness. Anything you love will work here! - Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes! Store-bought pesto is totally fine and will save you time. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pesto adds a richer, fresher flavor.
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