Best 2 Tomato Mozzarella Pesto Pasta Salad Recipes

In the realm of culinary delights, tomato mozzarella pesto pasta salad stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of flavors and textures. This delectable dish, often served as a refreshing summer treat or a light lunch option, captures the essence of the Mediterranean with its vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas. As we embark on a culinary journey to explore the best recipes for tomato mozzarella pesto pasta salad, let us delve into the secrets behind its irresistible allure. From the perfect combination of ripe, juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese to the vibrant burst of fresh basil pesto, this salad promises a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

TOMATO MOZZARELLA PESTO PASTA SALAD RECIPE - (4.3/5)

Tomato Mozzarella Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe - (4.3/5) image

Provided by I_love_cooking

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

PESTO SAUCE:
16 ounce uncooked penne pasta
1 cup pesto sauce (recipe follows)
1 cup boconccini (small fresh mozzarella balls marinated in olive oil)
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cup fresh baby spinach
2 cups fresh basil leaves
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup pine nuts
2 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
3 gloves garlic, peeled
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Steps:

Prepare pasta according to package directions until al dente. Rinse in cold water and drain. Toss cooked pasta with prepared pesto sauce. Cool pasta mixture. Divide fresh baby spinach on serving plates. Arrange pesto pasta mixture on top. Garnish with fresh mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes. Pesto sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine basil, pine nuts, garlic, salt and half of olive oil. Process steadily until mixture turns into a grainy paste, while adding the rest of the olive oil in.

TOMATO, MOZZARELLA AND PESTO PASTA SALAD

Tomato, Mozzarella and Pesto Pasta Salad image

I came up with this one day when trying to use up ingredients I already had. The pine nuts give the salad a great, nutty flavour and add a bit of crunch to the texture. Serves 4 as a side dish. Update: I have added some olive oil to the pasta salad to moisten it up a bit, based on a review.

Provided by Shuzbud

Categories European

Time 15m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

2 cups dry pasta (penne, fusilli or bow-tie work best)
5 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
10 cherry tomatoes
4 tablespoons pesto sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons very finely grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts

Steps:

Cook the pasta according to the directions on the package.
Meanwhile, cut the mozzarella into small cubes and quarter the cherry tomatoes.
When the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it in cold water until the pasta is cold. Drain it again.
Mix the pesto sauce, olive oil and parmesan in with the pasta.
In a large serving bowl, mix the pasta with the mozzarella and tomatoes.
Sprinkle the pine nuts over the top and serve.

Tips:

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes. This will ensure the best flavor for your pasta salad.
Choose a pesto that you enjoy. There are many different types of pesto available, so find one that you like the taste of.
Don't overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta is the best choice for this salad.
Let the salad cool before serving. This will help the flavors to meld together.
Garnish the salad with fresh basil or parsley. This will add a pop of color and flavor.

Conclusion:

Tomato Mozzarella Pesto Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make summer dish. It's perfect for a picnic, potluck, or backyard barbecue. The fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and pesto combine to create a flavorful and satisfying salad. So next time you're looking for a light and refreshing meal, give Tomato Mozzarella Pesto Pasta Salad a try!