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The Ultimate Crowd-Pleasing Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad

A vibrant bowl of pesto pasta salad featuring fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, and small mozzarella balls coated in green pesto.
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Make this refreshing Pesto Caprese Pasta Salad for your next BBQ or potluck. It combines fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil pesto for a satisfying, quick summer side dish that everyone loves.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound rotini pasta or preferred short pasta
  • 1 cup prepared basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained and halved
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional addition: 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and sliced red onion. If using, add the shredded chicken now.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Pour the pesto dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Stir in the toasted pine nuts and chopped fresh basil.
  6. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. This salad tastes great made ahead, making it perfect for meal planning or picnics.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, consider this salad as part of your meal planning instead of relying on heavy meal delivery companies.
  • If you want a creamier texture, mix in 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt with the pesto dressing.
  • This salad pairs well with a simple keto meal plan delivery option if you are watching carbs, though the pasta makes it a moderate choice.
  • If you are looking for a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella with sun-dried tomatoes and use a dairy-free pesto.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/pesto-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-caprese/