Pesto lovers, rejoice! The classic Italian sauce has been elevated to new heights with a delicious twist – adding it to a refreshing pasta salad. Imagine the creamy richness of pesto paired with al dente noodles, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy vegetables… it’s a match made in heaven! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering recipes that will take your taste buds on a culinary journey around the world.
From classic combinations to innovative fusion flavors, these creamy pesto pasta salads are sure to become your new go-to for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in a delightful array of flavors and textures that will make you fall in love with the humble pasta salad all over again.
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Summary: A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of basil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes with pasta and a tangy pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto (see recipe below)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Basil Pesto:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Drizzle the basil pesto over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this creamy avocado pesto pasta salad combines the richness of avocado with the brightness of fresh herbs and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, pesto, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and garlic.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined with the creamy avocado mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Pesto Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the richness of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pesto Pasta Salad
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and refreshing summer salad featuring grilled chicken, creamy pesto sauce, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and olive oil.
5. Add cooked pasta, grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and basil to the bowl; toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste; top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Salad with Feta
Mediterranean Pesto Pasta Salad with Feta Recipe
A refreshing twist on classic pasta salad, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of pesto, crumbled feta cheese, and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
3. Toss gently to combine, taking care not to crush the pasta or tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pasta Salad
Roasted Vegetable Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Summer’s sweetness comes alive in this vibrant salad, where roasted vegetables meet creamy pesto pasta and fresh herbs. This colorful dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, pesto, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spinach and Walnut Pesto Pasta Salad
A fresh and flavorful twist on traditional pesto pasta salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of walnuts with the earthy goodness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (store-bought is fine too!)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the garlic over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped walnuts to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Combine cooked pasta, toasted walnuts, and fresh spinach leaves in a large bowl.
5. Drizzle pesto over the top and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon and garlic with the rich flavor of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the pesto mixture.
4. Stir in cherry tomatoes and feta cheese (if using).
5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Pesto Pasta Salad with Mozzarella
Elevate your pasta game with this colorful and flavorful Caprese-inspired salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of homemade pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 tbsp. homemade pesto (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle homemade pesto over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Pesto Pasta Salad with Chili Flakes
Elevate your pasta salad game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the classic Italian flavors of pesto with a spicy kick from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto and olive oil.
3. Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives to the bowl. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chili flakes over the top and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Cashew Pesto Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad combines the creaminess of cashew pesto with the heartiness of whole wheat pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying vegan meal. With its blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, olive oil, garlic, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add cooked pasta to the blender or food processor and blend until well combined with the pesto sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for pasta)
Bacon and Pea Pesto Pasta Salad
Add a twist to your traditional pasta salad with the smoky flavor of bacon, the sweetness of peas, and the creaminess of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and crumble into small pieces.
3. In a separate pot, boil peas for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside with cooked pasta.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, peas, crumbled bacon, and pesto. Toss until well combined.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Artichoke and Olive Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of artichoke, olive, and pesto with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see note)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, sliced olives, and pesto sauce. Toss gently to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the artichoke-olive-pesto mixture.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese on top (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this Greek yogurt pesto pasta salad combines the creamy tang of Greek yogurt with the bold flavors of pesto and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp. freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and pesto until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and Kalamata olives to the yogurt mixture. Toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including chilling time)
Zucchini Noodle Pesto Pasta Salad
A light and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of pesto, zucchini noodles, and cherry tomatoes for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini
– 8 oz. whole wheat spaghetti
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Use a spiralizer or a vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles from the medium-sized zucchini.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, zucchini noodles, and halved cherry tomatoes.
4. Drizzle the pesto sauce over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad with Pine Nuts
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy and the crunch of pine nuts, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. The pesto sauce adds a rich and herby note to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. orzo pasta
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked orzo pasta, pesto sauce, parsley, feta cheese (if using), and pine nuts.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Pesto Pasta Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for hot summer days when you crave something light, yet flavorful. With succulent shrimp, tangy pesto, and al dente pasta, this dish will satisfy your taste buds in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked pasta, pesto, and garlic in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Add cooked shrimp to the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Arugula and Parmesan Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the peppery taste of arugula with the creamy richness of parmesan pesto, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Arugula and Parmesan Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup parmesan pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine arugula, parmesan pesto, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tips: You can also add some toasted pine nuts or shaved prosciutto for extra texture and flavor. This salad is best served fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before serving.
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 creamy pesto pasta salad recipes! From classic basil and cherry tomato combinations to innovative twists featuring grilled chicken, Mediterranean flavors, and roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Try the creamy avocado pesto salad or the spicy pesto salad with chili flakes for a kick. If you’re looking for vegetarian options, don’t miss the zucchini noodle pesto salad or the artichoke and olive pesto salad. With these recipes, you’ll never tire of the rich and tangy flavors that only pesto can bring!
