Description
Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is a flavorful, refreshing, and versatile dish perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, hosting a potluck, or just looking for a quick, satisfying lunch, this salad checks all the boxes. Combining zesty pesto with a rich, creamy base made from yogurt or mayo, this salad strikes the perfect balance of lightness and indulgence. Its adaptability allows for easy customization with different proteins, veggies, or even pasta types, offering endless possibilities to satisfy any craving.
Ingredients
- 10 oz fusilli pasta (or your preferred short-cut pasta)
- 3/4 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or mayo for extra richness)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling salted water and cooking the pasta until al dente. Once cooked, drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This also cools the pasta down, making it ready for the salad. - Prepare the Creamy Pesto Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pesto, Greek yogurt (or mayo), and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. - Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled pasta to the creamy pesto dressing and toss until the pasta is evenly coated. Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and toasted pine nuts (if using) to ensure all ingredients are well distributed. - Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness. This salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Variations of Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad
One of the great things about this dish is its flexibility. Here are popular ways to customize Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad to suit different tastes and dietary requirements.
- Add Protein
- Grilled Chicken: Shredded grilled chicken adds heartiness, complementing the creamy pesto beautifully.
- Shrimp or Salmon: For a seafood twist, grilled shrimp or seared salmon enrich the dish with depth of flavor.
- Tofu or Chickpeas: For a vegetarian or vegan option, add crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas for texture and protein.
- Vegan and Vegetarian Versions
Easily make this dish vegan by swapping Greek yogurt or mayo with vegan alternatives. For pesto, substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based yogurt. - Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Options
Substitute traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spiralized vegetables for a low-carb version. Gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas or lentils maintains the same texture as traditional pasta while being nutrient-dense.For more gluten-free recipes, check out this Gluten-Free Pasta Guide for ideas on enjoying your favorite dishes without gluten.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile and works in many settings. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or fish. It’s ideal for summer BBQs, balancing the smoky flavors of grilled food.
- As a Main Course: Adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu transforms this salad into a hearty main dish.
- Potlucks and Picnics: This salad is an excellent option for potlucks and picnics since it can be prepared ahead of time and transported easily.
FAQs About Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad
- Can I Make Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you’re adding delicate ingredients like fresh basil or arugula, add them just before serving to preserve freshness. - How Long Does Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.