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Easy Tomato and Mozzarella Pesto Pasta Salad – Fresh Summer Side

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This pesto pasta salad features tender bowtie pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella all coated in Parmesan cheese and a delicious pesto sauce. It’s a quick, fresh, and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or an easy side.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces bowtie pasta, cooked according to package directions
  • 1 pound cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounce fresh mozzarella cheese balls (ciliegine), drained
  • 8 ounces prepared or homemade pesto (or to taste)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and add to a large bowl. Let cool for about 10 minutes if you don’t want the mozzarella to melt.
  2. Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and pesto. Stir to combine and coat evenly.
  3. Add the Parmesan cheese and black pepper. Stir again to combine evenly. Taste and add salt if desired.
  4. Optionally garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately or chill before serving.

Notes

  • Pasta salad will keep airtight in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Use multi-colored tomatoes for a more vibrant presentation.
  • Adjust pesto and Parmesan to taste for a stronger flavor.
  • Author: lina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiled
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 241
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 404 mg
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 13 g
  • Cholesterol: 33 mg