Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes

There’s just something magical about pasta salad, isn’t there? It’s the kind of dish that shows up at family gatherings, picnic spreads, and lazy Sunday lunches. It’s dependable, easy to whip up, and totally customizable. But let me tell you—this creamy pesto pasta salad is not your average pasta salad. It’s the kind of dish that turns heads and earns second helpings. With the herby richness of pesto, the creamy base of Greek yogurt or mayo, and the savory goodness of mozzarella and olives, this one is absolutely worth adding to your regular meal rotation.

This recipe started as a bit of an experiment during a hot summer week when I wanted something filling, flavorful, and refreshingly cold. I was craving pasta (always) but didn’t want a heavy, hot meal. A quick scan of my fridge turned up cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls, and a jar of pesto I had made the day before. Within thirty minutes, I had a bowl of creamy, zesty pasta salad that checked every box.

What makes this version extra special is the balance of textures and flavors. The cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, while the olives bring a salty depth. The red onions add a mild crunch and sharpness, and the pesto ties everything together in a deeply satisfying way. A touch of mayo or Greek yogurt transforms the pesto into a creamy, luscious dressing that coats the pasta perfectly.

This is the kind of meal you can prep ahead of time, tuck into your fridge, and feel excited about later. It’s ideal for meal prepping, bringing to potlucks, or serving as a hearty side to grilled chicken or fish. It’s simple, beautiful, and full of flavor—the trifecta of a perfect summer dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this creamy pesto pasta salad, and once you make it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a staple. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main course, the flavors and textures make it hard to resist.

First of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps—boiling pasta, mixing the dressing, and tossing everything together—you can have a fresh and vibrant dish ready in no time. It doesn’t require any fancy cooking skills, which makes it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.

Next, the flavor profile is absolutely dreamy. Pesto on its own is already a powerhouse of flavor with its bold, herbaceous notes and slight nuttiness. But when combined with a creamy element like mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, it becomes even more indulgent. This creaminess helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the sharpness of the onion, creating a harmonious bite every time.

This salad is also incredibly versatile. You can switch up the pasta shape, add extra veggies like cucumber or roasted red peppers, or include a protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas. It’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes creativity and adaptation, which means you’ll never get bored of it.

On top of all that, this pasta salad is crowd-friendly and kid-approved. The bright colors, creamy dressing, and familiar ingredients make it a hit at gatherings, while the satisfying texture ensures that it keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches throughout the week.

Health Benefits

Though pasta salad might not immediately come to mind when you think of healthy meals, this creamy pesto pasta salad has several nutritional perks that make it a wholesome option when balanced with thoughtful ingredients. By using whole, fresh elements and leaning into moderation, this dish offers both flavor and nourishment.

Let’s start with the base: pasta. Opting for whole wheat or legume-based pasta is a great way to boost the fiber and protein content of this dish. Whole wheat pasta is less processed than white pasta and retains more of its nutrients, while lentil or chickpea pasta provides plant-based protein and keeps you full longer.

Cherry tomatoes are not only delicious but also rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic disease. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate, all of which support immune and heart health.

The mozzarella pearls add a bit of indulgence, but they also contribute calcium and protein. Choosing fresh mozzarella instead of processed shredded cheese keeps things lighter and provides that lovely creamy texture without unnecessary additives.

Olives bring in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. They add saltiness and depth without needing to rely on excess sodium from sauces or dressings. Red onions, in small amounts, also contribute fiber, vitamin C, and a bit of prebiotic benefit, supporting gut health.

The pesto itself can be a healthful component when made with fresh basil, nuts, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Even when store-bought, pesto tends to have more real-food ingredients than many other pre-made dressings. And if you opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the creamy element, you’ll also be getting an extra dose of protein and probiotics.

This pasta salad is a perfect example of how comfort food can also be good for you. By combining whole ingredients in a thoughtful way, it’s possible to create something that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional needs.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This creamy pesto pasta salad is quick and efficient, making it a fantastic option for both planned meals and last-minute gatherings. The total time includes prep, cooking, and a bit of chilling time to let the flavors come together beautifully.

Total Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 10 minutes
• Cooking (pasta): 10 minutes
• Mixing and assembly: 10 minutes
• Chilling time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)

Total Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes

Servings: This recipe serves 4 to 6 people as a main dish, or up to 8 as a side dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Sodium: 430mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keep in mind that the values can vary based on the type of pasta you use and whether you opt for mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. You can always tailor the ingredients to meet your nutritional goals.

Ingredients List

For this pasta salad, you’ll only need a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an important role in flavor, texture, or visual appeal. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Pasta:

• 1 pound short pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or penne) Short pasta is ideal for holding onto the creamy dressing and making each bite satisfying. Rotini or fusilli has the right amount of nooks and crannies to catch the pesto.

Fresh Vegetables:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved These little tomatoes add color, sweetness, and a juicy texture that balances the richness of the dressing.
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced Red onions add a sharp, zesty bite. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, you can soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavor.

Cheese:

• ½ cup mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella The soft creaminess of mozzarella works so well with the herby dressing and adds just the right amount of richness.

Extras:

• ½ cup pitted black olives or kalamata olives Olives provide a salty contrast to the creamy pesto and juicy tomatoes. Kalamata olives add more complexity, while black olives are milder.

Dressing:

• ½ cup prepared pesto (store-bought or homemade) Pesto is the heart of the flavor here. Choose one with fresh ingredients or make your own with basil, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
• ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt This is what makes the pesto creamy and coats the pasta so beautifully. Use Greek yogurt for a tangy, healthier twist or mayo for a richer texture.

Seasoning:

• Salt and pepper to taste Season generously to bring out all the flavors in the pasta and dressing.

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated parmesan cheese

These optional toppings add freshness and umami and make the dish look even more appetizing. A sprinkle of parmesan and a few torn basil leaves go a long way.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now let’s walk through the process of bringing this creamy pesto pasta salad together. Don’t worry—it’s incredibly straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and in less than an hour, you’ll have a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish ready to go.

1. Boil the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water to properly season the pasta.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes 8 to 10 minutes.
• Once cooked, drain the pasta and immediately rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. This step is essential for pasta salad so the dressing doesn’t become gummy.

2. Prepare the Creamy Pesto Dressing

• In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of prepared pesto with ¼ cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
• Stir until the dressing is completely smooth and creamy. If the dressing seems too thick, you can loosen it with a tablespoon of water or olive oil.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper if needed.

3. Prep the Fresh Ingredients

• While the pasta is cooking and cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the red onions thinly.
• Cube or pull apart the mozzarella pearls, depending on their size. Drain the olives and slice them if they are large.
• If you’re using fresh basil, chop or tear it into small pieces just before adding it to the salad.

4. Assemble the Pasta Salad

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, mozzarella, and olives.
• Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together until well coated.
• Be patient and use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently mix without crushing the ingredients. Every piece should be coated in dressing, but not soggy.

5. Taste and Adjust

• Once everything is mixed, give the salad a taste. Add more salt or pepper if needed. If you like a zestier flavor, a small squeeze of lemon juice can brighten everything up.
• You can also add a few more spoonfuls of pesto or a splash of olive oil if the salad feels too dry.

6. Chill the Salad

• While this salad can be eaten immediately, it tastes even better after chilling for at least 30 minutes.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the fridge.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan, if using.
• Serve cold or at room temperature.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into how to serve, pair, store, and personalize your pasta salad for every occasion.

How to Serve

Serving this creamy pesto pasta salad is one of the easiest and most enjoyable parts of making it. Thanks to its vibrant colors, creamy texture, and bold flavors, it looks just as good on a casual dinner table as it does at a fancy potluck or family gathering. And the best part? You can serve it cold or at room temperature, making it a low-maintenance star of any meal.

To start, consider the setting. If you’re serving this as a side dish, it goes beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, beef skewers, or even baked fish. Since it’s served cold, it also acts as a cooling contrast to anything spicy or smoky coming off the grill. If you’re going for a Mediterranean-style meal, pair it with baked chicken thighs seasoned with lemon and oregano, or even falafel for a vegetarian spread.

When serving as a main course, portion it generously into bowls and top with a few extra mozzarella pearls or a soft-boiled egg for added protein. Drizzle a little extra pesto or olive oil on top for a restaurant-style finish. You can also serve it over a bed of arugula or baby spinach to add some greens and a peppery bite.

For gatherings or potlucks, this dish is a lifesaver. Not only can it be made ahead of time, but it also holds up really well without refrigeration for a couple of hours, making it ideal for picnics and parties. Simply give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing, and garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of grated parmesan to freshen up the presentation.

If you’re meal-prepping lunches for the week, portion the salad into individual airtight containers and store in the fridge. It makes a satisfying lunch on its own, or you can serve it with some hummus and pita on the side for a Mediterranean-inspired midday meal.

However you serve it, make sure to bring it to room temperature for a few minutes before eating. This allows the flavors to shine and the creamy dressing to loosen up a bit.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy pesto pasta salad is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a wide variety of other dishes and drinks. Whether you’re putting together a full spread for a summer cookout or just looking for a couple of sides to complement your main, here are some delicious ideas to try.

Protein Pairings

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast or thigh, seasoned with lemon, garlic, or herbs, pairs wonderfully with the creamy, herbaceous flavors of the pasta salad. The warm, savory meat contrasts perfectly with the chilled, creamy pasta.
• Roasted or Grilled Turkey Sausages: For a hearty, halal-friendly option, turkey or beef sausages bring spice and richness that balance the fresh vegetables and dressing.
• Seared Salmon: A fillet of salmon, either grilled or pan-seared, adds healthy omega-3 fats and a rich, buttery flavor that plays well with the sharpness of red onion and the freshness of cherry tomatoes.

Vegetable Side Pairings

• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant brings depth and color to the plate. These veggies also taste amazing cold or room temp, making them easy to prep in advance.
• Simple Green Salad: A lemony arugula or mixed greens salad is a great contrast to the creamy pasta. Toss greens with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a light, bright pairing.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn balances the tang of the yogurt and the saltiness of the olives, especially if you sprinkle it with a little smoked paprika or chili powder.

Bread and Carb Pairings

• Garlic Bread or Flatbread: Mop up the leftover pesto dressing with warm, crusty garlic bread or a fluffy naan. It adds a comforting touch and rounds out the meal beautifully.
• Toasted Pita Chips: Especially great if you’re serving this salad as part of a mezze platter. Crunchy, salty pita chips add a nice texture contrast.

Drink Pairings

• Mint Lemonade: A cold glass of homemade mint lemonade balances the richness of the pasta with cool citrus notes.
• Cucumber Water or Iced Herbal Tea: For a lighter, more hydrating drink, go with an infused water or a cold herbal tea like hibiscus or chamomile.
• Sparkling Juice or Non-Alcoholic Tonic: A bubbly, fruit-forward drink adds festiveness without overpowering the food. Look for pomegranate, berry, or citrus flavors.

With these pairings, your creamy pesto pasta salad can easily become the centerpiece of a refreshing, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best parts about this pasta salad—besides how delicious it is—is how well it stores. It’s an excellent make-ahead option that keeps its flavor and texture for several days when stored properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh and safe to eat, whether you’re enjoying leftovers or prepping it for a party.

Refrigerator Storage

• How to Store: Transfer the finished salad to an airtight container. If you’ve garnished it with fresh basil or parmesan, you might want to reserve some for just before serving to maintain freshness and presentation.
• Shelf Life: The salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Beyond that, the texture of the pasta and the freshness of the vegetables may start to degrade.
• Before Serving: Let the salad sit out at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. This softens the dressing and brings out the flavors. Give it a gentle stir and, if needed, add a small splash of olive oil or extra pesto to revive the creaminess.

Freezing Instructions

• Can You Freeze It? Technically, yes—but it’s not ideal. Creamy pasta salads with dairy-based dressings (like Greek yogurt or mayo) don’t freeze well because the dressing can separate and become watery once thawed. The texture of the tomatoes and mozzarella may also suffer.
• Alternative: If you really want to freeze it, consider freezing only the cooked pasta and pesto dressing (separately), then assembling the salad fresh with vegetables and cheese when ready to serve.

Reheating Instructions

This dish is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no reheating necessary. However, if you’re adding a warm protein on top—like grilled chicken or roasted veggies—you can warm those separately and serve them over the cold pasta salad for a great temperature contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple dishes can go sideways if you’re not careful. To help you get the best results every time, here are some of the most common mistakes people make when preparing creamy pesto pasta salad—and how to avoid them.

1. Overcooking the Pasta

One of the biggest missteps in any pasta salad is overcooked pasta. It might seem like a small thing, but mushy pasta can ruin the texture of your salad. Always cook the pasta al dente—firm to the bite—since it will absorb moisture from the dressing as it chills.

2. Not Rinsing the Pasta

For hot pasta dishes, you never rinse pasta. But for pasta salad, rinsing is key. It stops the cooking process and prevents the noodles from sticking together. It also helps cool the pasta down quickly so you can mix it with the creamy dressing right away.

3. Using Too Much Dressing Too Soon

You want your pasta salad to be creamy, not soggy. If you add too much dressing right after cooking, the warm pasta will soak it all up and become heavy. Instead, let the pasta cool fully before tossing it in the dressing. You can always add more later after chilling if it seems dry.

4. Not Seasoning Enough

Even with flavorful ingredients like pesto and olives, pasta salad needs salt and pepper to shine. Season the dressing to taste, and don’t be afraid to adjust it after mixing everything together.

5. Skipping the Chill Time

It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes really allows the flavors to meld. If you skip this step, the dish won’t be nearly as cohesive or flavorful.

By keeping these pitfalls in mind, you’ll ensure a perfect creamy pesto pasta salad every single time.

Pro Tips

If you want to take your creamy pesto pasta salad from good to absolutely unforgettable, a few small adjustments and smart techniques can make a big difference. These pro tips will help you maximize flavor, maintain the perfect texture, and even impress your guests with little effort.

1. Drain Your Mozzarella and Tomatoes Well
Fresh mozzarella pearls and juicy cherry tomatoes both have high water content. If you toss them into your salad straight from their packaging or without draining them properly, they can water down your creamy dressing. After halving the tomatoes, let them sit on a paper towel to absorb excess juice. If your mozzarella is packed in water, pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

2. Loosen the Pesto with a Bit of Pasta Water
If your pesto is a little thick or clings to just a few pasta pieces, you can thin it out by adding a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta cooking water to the dressing. The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce and allows it to coat the pasta more evenly. This works especially well when combining pesto with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.

3. Use a Pasta Shape That Grabs Sauce
Choose a pasta shape like rotini, fusilli, or penne that has ridges and curves to capture all the creamy pesto goodness. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine, which don’t hold dressing as well and can clump together.

4. Chill the Pasta Before Mixing With the Dressing
Although it’s tempting to rush things, mixing hot pasta with creamy dressing will cause the sauce to separate or become overly absorbed. Allow your pasta to cool fully—either by rinsing under cold water or spreading it out on a baking sheet—before tossing it with the pesto mixture.

5. Layer, Then Toss Gently
Rather than dumping everything into a bowl at once, start with pasta, then layer on the veggies, cheese, and olives. Pour over the dressing last, and toss gently from the bottom using a large spoon or silicone spatula. This method prevents crushing delicate ingredients and ensures every component gets evenly coated.

6. Taste Test Before Serving
The flavors in this salad will evolve slightly after chilling, so always give it a quick taste before serving. Add a pinch of salt, a crack of black pepper, or a touch of lemon juice if needed to brighten things up.

7. Don’t Skip the Garnishes
Fresh basil or grated parmesan isn’t just for looks—it adds an extra layer of aroma and flavor that ties everything together. Even a small sprinkle of chopped basil or a light dusting of cheese right before serving makes the dish feel complete and extra special.

By using these tips, you’ll elevate a simple pasta salad into something your family and friends will ask for again and again. The extra care in prepping and assembling is what transforms a good dish into a go-to classic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought pesto, or do I need to make it from scratch?
Absolutely, you can use store-bought pesto. It’s convenient and still delivers great flavor. Just check the ingredient list—go for one that uses fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, and real cheese for the best taste. If you have time, homemade pesto will always have a fresher, more vibrant flavor.

What’s the best way to make this pasta salad in advance?
This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it as directed, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If the salad looks a little dry after chilling, just stir in an extra spoonful of pesto or olive oil before serving.

Can I make this pasta salad without dairy?
Yes! Use a dairy-free pesto (some brands include parmesan, so check the label), and replace the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative or leave it out altogether. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt or mayonnaise to keep the dressing creamy.

Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
It can be. Simply use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or lentils. Just be mindful that gluten-free pasta can become mushy if overcooked, so be sure to cook it al dente and rinse it thoroughly after boiling.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely. Grilled chicken, turkey breast, chickpeas, or even canned tuna are great additions. Stir in your protein of choice when mixing the salad, or serve it on top as a finishing touch.

How long can I leave this pasta salad out at room temperature?
If you’re serving this at a picnic or party, it’s safe to leave out for up to two hours. If the temperature is especially warm, try to keep it chilled using an insulated bag or cooler.

Can I use other vegetables besides cherry tomatoes and onions?
Yes! This recipe is very adaptable. You can add or substitute with roasted red peppers, cucumber, sweet corn, spinach, or even steamed broccoli. Just be sure to chop everything to a similar size for easy mixing and even bites.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
You can, but Greek yogurt is thicker and creamier, which works better for the dressing. If using regular yogurt, you may want to strain it first or reduce the amount slightly so the dressing doesn’t get too runny.

Why is my pasta salad dry after chilling?
Pasta naturally absorbs moisture as it sits. If your salad feels a little dry after refrigeration, don’t worry—it’s normal. Just stir in a small amount of olive oil, extra pesto, or a bit more yogurt to bring it back to life.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely. This recipe scales up beautifully. Just make sure you have a large enough mixing bowl and adjust your seasoning gradually—taste as you go to ensure everything remains balanced.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This creamy pesto pasta salad is so much more than just a quick meal or a potluck side. It’s a delicious celebration of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and comforting textures. From the moment you toss together the pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and rich pesto dressing, you’ll see just how simple and satisfying this dish can be.

It’s a go-to recipe that’s easy to personalize, make ahead, and enjoy for days. Whether you’re planning a picnic, preparing a wholesome lunch, or need a reliable dish to bring to a family gathering, this salad delivers flavor and ease in every bite. The versatility, combined with the minimal cooking required, makes it a winner for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike.

So, if you’re looking for a fresh way to enjoy pasta that doesn’t involve turning on the oven or spending hours in the kitchen, this salad is your answer. And once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular part of your meal prep or a staple for every warm-weather gathering.

Now it’s your turn! Make this creamy pesto pasta salad, share it with your family or friends, and let it bring a little extra joy to your table. If you make it and love it, I’d absolutely love to hear how it went. Feel free to drop a comment with your thoughts or any creative variations you tried. Better yet, snap a photo of your beautiful creation and tag me on social media—I always enjoy seeing how you bring these recipes to life in your own kitchen.

Happy cooking!

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