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Delicious easy pesto pasta salad with fresh ingredients

Pesto Pasta Salad

A bright and satisfying pasta salad featuring fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and herb-forward homemade pesto.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 5 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 8 oz pasta Choose a short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle.
  • 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced Use ripe tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for smaller bites.
Cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed Opt for pearl mozzarella or small cubes.
  • 1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese Freshly shredded parmesan is preferable.
Pesto
  • 1 cup homemade pesto Store-bought pesto can be used as a shortcut.
Seasonings
  • 1 tsp salt Season gently and adjust after mixing.
  • 1 tsp pepper Use freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
  3. Add the homemade pesto and mix until evenly coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Top with shredded parmesan cheese before serving.
  6. Enjoy as a side dish or store for later lunches.

Notes

Aim to cool the pasta to room temperature or rinse briefly under cold water to prevent the tomatoes and mozzarella from wilting.