Description
Make this easy, flavorful pasta salad featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a creamy pesto dressing, finished with a sweet balsamic glaze. It is perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound small pasta (like rotini or farfalle)
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces small fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or pearls), drained
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or reduced balsamic vinegar)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- While the pasta cools, prepare the dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pesto, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.
- Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
- Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to combine.
- Before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of the salad. You can toss it lightly or leave it as a visible topping.
Notes
- You can prepare this salad up to one day ahead. Add the basil and balsamic glaze just before serving for the best texture and color.
- For a heartier meal, add 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken breast.
- If you do not have balsamic glaze, simmer 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until it reduces by half and coats the back of a spoon. Let it cool before using.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook (Assembly)
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 16
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 15
- Cholesterol: 30