Go Back

Cold Pesto Pasta Salad

This vibrant cold pasta salad combines al dente pasta with fresh, crunchy vegetables, all coated in a fragrant basil pesto. The dish is chilled to enhance the flavors and textures, resulting in a bright, lively salad with a satisfying crunch and herbaceous punch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz rotini or penne pasta prefer ridged for better pesto cling
  • 1 cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumbers seedless Persian, sliced
  • 1/2 red red onion thinly sliced and soaked in cold water
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice brightens the salad

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Spoon or Spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until just al dente, following package instructions. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water until completely cooled, then toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
  2. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes into halves, thinly slice the cucumbers, and soak the red onion slices in cold water for about 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and drained red onion. Toss everything gently to distribute evenly.
  4. Add the pesto and lemon juice to the bowl, then stir well until all the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the fragrant, herby sauce.
  5. Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and toss again to incorporate the cheesy bits throughout the salad.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld and the salad chill thoroughly.
  7. Before serving, give the salad a good stir to refresh the pesto coating and redistribute any juices. Serve chilled, enjoying the crisp vegetables and fragrant, herbaceous pasta.