Pesto Pasta Salad

Update : April 30, 2026

why make this recipe

Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of basil pesto with pasta and fresh vegetables. It is not only colorful and appetizing but also perfect for any gathering, picnic, or potluck. This salad is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With its combination of textures and flavors, it appeals to both adults and kids, making it a versatile addition to your meal lineup.

how to make Pesto Pasta Salad

Ingredients :

¾ pound (340 grams) fusilli pasta
¾ pound (340 grams) bow tie pasta
5 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
1 pack (10-ounce/283 grams) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and water squeezed out
1 ½ cups frozen peas, thawed
3 tablespoons garlic, chopped (about 9 cloves)
1 ½ cups pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
1 ½ cups olive oil
¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
½ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
⅓ cup pine nuts
¼ cup pine nuts
¼ cup walnuts
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions :

Prepare two large pots of salted water and bring it to a vigorous boil. Cook fusilli and bow tie pasta separately for 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain both pastas and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil to coat the pasta strands. Allow to cool to room temperature.
For the pesto, combine the pesto, drained spinach, and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until smooth. Add the mayonnaise and blend thoroughly until well mixed.
Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the cooled pasta. Then add the grated Parmesan (½ cup), thawed peas, toasted pine nuts, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
For homemade pesto, place walnuts, pine nuts, and garlic in the food processor. Pulse for about 15 seconds to chop. Add the basil leaves, sea salt, and cracked pepper. Gradually stream in extra virgin olive oil while processing. Finally, add Parmesan cheese and blend until smooth.
Serve this pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish or a light main course. Garnish with extra Parmesan and pine nuts for an appealing presentation.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will improve as it sits!

how to serve Pesto Pasta Salad

Serve Pesto Pasta Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light main course. It’s great for barbecues, picnics, or family lunches. You can also garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese and pine nuts for a lovely presentation.

how to store Pesto Pasta Salad

To store Pesto Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day!

tips to make Pesto Pasta Salad

For a creamier texture, you can add more mayonnaise or pesto.
Toasting the pine nuts adds a lovely nutty flavor; make sure to keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.
Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives for added color and nutrition.

variation

You can switch up the pasta types to your liking or try different nuts in the pesto. Using sun-dried tomatoes in place of some basil can create a fun twist on the flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly in this recipe and can save you time.

How can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to enhance.