If you’re on the hunt for a bright, flavorful dish that brings together freshness and comfort in a bowl, this Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Perfect for festive gatherings or anytime you crave a vibrant twist on classic pasta salad, it balances the herbaceous charm of basil pesto with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the satisfying bite of olives. Every forkful delights with a melody of textures and colors that will make your holiday table pop, and it’s surprisingly simple to pull together, making it a beloved go-to that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish shines because of its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each add their unique character to the salad. From the tender pasta that forms the heart of the dish to the vibrant bursts of basil and tomatoes, every item plays a vital role in making this salad an unforgettable treat.
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta: These shapes hold pesto beautifully and provide a great texture contrast.
- 1 cup basil pesto: Use store-bought or homemade pesto for that signature herby richness.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy sweetness brightens every bite.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved: Creamy and mild, they balance the bold flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives: Adding a tangy depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves: For an extra fresh, aromatic punch that elevates the pesto.
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted (optional): Toasted for a nutty crunch that adds irresistible texture.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together.
- Optional: 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper: A pop of color and subtle sweetness for holiday cheer.
How to Make Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking your rotini or bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down, keeping those perfect chewy bites ready to soak up all that delicious pesto.
Step 2: Toss Pasta with Pesto
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta and basil pesto. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring every swirl of pasta is coated in that fragrant, herb-rich sauce, creating the salad’s vibrant base.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Ingredients
Now it’s time to add a parade of fresh and flavorful ingredients—cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced black olives, and if you’re using them, the diced red bell pepper. Don’t forget the chopped fresh basil for an extra boost of brightness. Gently fold these in to keep the textures intact and colors popping.
Step 4: Season and Garnish
Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste, balancing all the layers of flavor perfectly. Next, sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the top to add a delightful nutty crunch that’ll keep guests coming back for more.
Step 5: Chill and Meld Flavors
Pop your salad into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling step allows every ingredient to marry beautifully, enhancing the overall depth of flavor that makes this Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe truly special.
How to Serve Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To make this salad feel extra festive, sprinkle a few whole fresh basil leaves on top just before serving. You might also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil to give it a glossy, irresistible finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pesto pasta salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides—think crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of flavor or a simple green salad for some contrasting crunch. It’s excellent alongside roasted vegetables or your favorite holiday protein, making the meal complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in a colorful glass bowl to showcase all the vibrant colors, or for a festive twist, layer it in a trifle dish alternating with dollops of pesto and fresh basil leaves. Individual mason jars are fun, portable options for parties and add a charming rustic touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the salad sits, the flavors deepen even more, so it actually tastes better the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Freezing
Because of the fresh ingredients and delicate pesto, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t ideal for freezing. Freezing may cause the mozzarella and basil to lose their texture and vibrant flavor.
Reheating
Since this salad is designed to be served chilled or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, simply let it come to room temperature on the counter for about 15 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or bowtie pasta works best to hold onto the pesto, you can experiment with penne, farfalle, or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta can catch the sauce well to keep every bite flavorful.
Is it okay to use store-bought pesto?
Definitely. Store-bought pesto can be a huge time-saver and still tastes wonderful in this salad. For an extra fresh touch, consider stirring in a few spoonfuls of fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! Swap the fresh mozzarella balls for a plant-based cheese or marinated tofu, and ensure your pesto is nut-based without cheese (look for vegan pesto or make your own). This keeps the flavors vibrant and inclusive.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
At least 30 minutes in the fridge is ideal for the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to cool properly. If you’re in a rush, even 15 minutes helps, but longer is better.
What’s the best way to toast pine nuts?
Toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them—they burn easily but add incredible flavor when toasted just right.
Final Thoughts
This Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe is truly a delightful dish that invites you to celebrate the joy of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re making it for a festive gathering or a weekday meal, its lively flavors, pleasing textures, and colorful presentation will brighten your table and your mood. Give it a try—you’ll soon discover why it’s become one of my absolute favorite recipes to share and enjoy year-round!
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Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and flavorful Holiday Pesto Pasta Salad featuring al dente rotini tossed with fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, black olives, and toasted pine nuts. Perfectly chilled for a refreshing, colorful dish that’s ideal for festive gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
Dressing and Mix-ins
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper for extra color
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta by boiling it according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain well, then rinse with cold water to cool the pasta and stop the cooking process.
- Toss with pesto: Transfer the cooled pasta to a large bowl and add the basil pesto. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta evenly with the pesto sauce.
- Add fresh ingredients: Incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced black olives, chopped fresh basil leaves, and if desired, the diced red bell pepper. Mix gently to combine all ingredients without crushing the delicate components.
- Season: Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Garnish with pine nuts: Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor before serving.
- Chill and serve: Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Homemade pesto can be used to enhance freshness and control ingredients.
- To toast pine nuts, dry roast them in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead, making it great for meal prep or parties.
- For a vegan version, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or omit it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
