Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful dish perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a quick weeknight dinner. This vibrant pasta salad features spiral pasta tossed in fresh basil pesto, complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy bocconcini, and peppery arugula. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavor-Packed: Fresh basil pesto combined with creamy bocconcini creates a delicious taste explosion.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or enjoy it as a light main dish; the options are endless.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two days without losing flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, it’s both delicious and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the preparation of your Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Stick blender
• Mixing bowl
• Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while allowing enough room for it to move freely.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly while ensuring no water is left behind.
• Stick blender: Makes blending the pesto ingredients quick and easy, yielding a smooth yet textured mix.

Ingredients

A vibrant pasta salad featuring spiral pasta tossed in fresh basil pesto with cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and arugula.

Ingredients:
– 350g (12oz) spiral pasta (fusilli or other choice)
– 1 tablespoon salt for cooking pasta
– 2 tablespoons toasted pinenuts (or walnuts, cashews, almonds)
– 2 cups tightly packed basil leaves
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan
– 1/2 teaspoon cooking/kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 7 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (S&W or Hellman’s)
– 250g (1 heaped cup) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 220g (7 oz) baby bocconcini, drained and halved
– 1 cup tightly packed baby rocket/arugula leaves (40g)
– 1/2 teaspoon cooking/kosher salt
– Small basil leaves for garnish (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring 3 litres of water to boil with salt.
1. Add the spiral pasta once boiling.
2. Cook for the packet time plus one minute.
3. Drain the pasta using a colander.
4. Rinse under cold water until cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Pesto

Blend all pesto ingredients in a tall jug using a stick blender until mostly smooth but with some visible green bits remaining.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Mix the cooled pasta with pesto and mayonnaise.
2. Gently fold in the halved bocconcini and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add the rocket/arugula leaves and toss lightly to combine.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving bowl.
1. Garnish with small basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy your Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to delight your guests or enjoy it as a quick meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve chilled: This salad is perfect for hot days, served cold right out of the fridge.
• Pair with grilled chicken: The savory flavors of grilled chicken complement the freshness of the pasta salad beautifully.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect alongside barbecue meats: It adds a fresh contrast to smoky flavors from grilled sausages or ribs.
• Accompany with sandwiches: This salad makes an excellent side for any sandwich, enhancing your lunch spread.

For Picnics and Potlucks

• Pack in portable containers: Ideal for outdoor gatherings, it’s easy to transport and serve.
• Add to a buffet table: Its vibrant colors make it an attractive option among other dishes.

How to Perfect Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

To ensure your Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is always a hit, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh basil, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality olive oil make all the difference in taste.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta; it holds up better in salads and prevents sogginess.
• Customize your pesto: Feel free to experiment with nuts or add lemon juice for extra brightness.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors as they meld together.
• Add protein if desired: Chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can make this dish more filling and satisfying.
• Garnish thoughtfully: Use small basil leaves or additional cheese on top for an appealing finish.

Best Side Dishes for Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options that complement its flavors well.

1. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic breadsticks are perfect for sopping up any leftover pesto dressing on your plate.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until golden adds a hearty element alongside the salad.
4. Greek Salad: The tangy feta cheese and olives provide a nice contrast to the creamy pesto salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or quinoa create a filling addition to your meal.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a sweet finish that balances out savory dishes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta longer than instructed can result in mushiness. Always follow the package instructions and consider adding an extra minute for the perfect texture.
• Skipping the cooling step – Not rinsing the pasta under cold water can lead to clumping. Cooling it helps separate the strands and keeps the salad fresh.
• Using old basil – Fresh basil is key for a vibrant pesto. Make sure your basil leaves are green and fragrant; wilted leaves will affect the flavor of your salad.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Culinary precision matters! Use measuring cups and spoons to get the right balance of flavors, especially with ingredients like salt and olive oil.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Taste as you mix! Sometimes, a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate your pesto pasta salad to new heights.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

• Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Container: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, add a splash of olive oil and gently warm the salad, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad?

Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is a delicious blend of spiral pasta mixed with homemade basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, bocconcini, and arugula. It’s a refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Can I customize my Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, different vegetables, or even swap out the nuts in the pesto for variety. Feel free to make it your own!

How long does Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 2 months if frozen.

What types of pasta work best?

While spiral pasta like fusilli is ideal for this recipe, you can also use penne or farfalle based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Pesto Pasta Salad is not only vibrant and flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a picnic or a simple weeknight dinner, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its fresh taste!