Creamy Pasta Salad Recipe with Pesto and Mozzarella

There’s something about a good pasta salad that feels like a warm hug on a summer day. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and bursting with flavors that make every bite pure joy. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, packing a picnic, or just need a quick and delicious meal, this Creamy Pasta Salad with Pesto and Mozzarella is the answer. It’s one of those recipes that bring people together—no fuss, no complicated steps, just simple ingredients coming together to create something magical.

The creamy dressing, infused with the bold flavors of basil pesto, coats every swirl of pasta, while juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and fresh baby spinach add bursts of freshness. The star of the show? Soft, pillowy mozzarella balls that melt in your mouth with every bite. The balance of creaminess, tang, and crunch makes this dish a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Whether you’re a pasta salad enthusiast or trying it for the first time, get ready to fall in love. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize. Want to add more veggies? Go for it. Craving some protein? Throw in grilled chicken or shrimp. No matter how you make it, this dish will leave you and your guests reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any pasta salad—it’s a flavor-packed, creamy, dreamy bowl of comfort that you’ll want to make again and again. Here’s why:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Creamy & Flavorful: The combination of basil pesto, smooth mozzarella, and a luscious dressing creates a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side, or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta salad fits the bill.
• Customizable: Switch up the ingredients to match your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep and parties.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this creamy, dreamy pasta salad to life:

For the Salad:

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (fusilli, penne, or bowtie work best)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup baby spinach or arugula
• 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for crunch)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. You want it firm enough to hold up in the salad but not too soft.

Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also prevents it from becoming mushy. Transfer it to a large mixing bowl and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

• While the pasta cools, chop and prep all your fresh ingredients:
• Halve the cherry tomatoes for juicy bursts of flavor.
• Dice the bell pepper for a pop of crunch and sweetness.
• Finely chop the red onion for a subtle sharpness.
• Halve the mini mozzarella balls for creamy, cheesy bites.
• Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan until golden brown (if using).

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Dressing

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
• Pesto for an herby, garlicky kick
• Mayonnaise & Greek yogurt for a smooth, creamy base
• Lemon juice & olive oil to brighten and balance the flavors
• Honey (optional) for a hint of sweetness
• Salt & pepper to taste

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the creamy pesto dressing over the cooled pasta. Add in all your prepped veggies, mozzarella, and spinach. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.

The pasta will soak up the dressing beautifully, making every bite flavorful and delicious.

Cover the pasta salad and let it chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step allows all the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious.

Before serving, give it a quick toss and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch.

Tips for the Best Pasta Salad

• Choose the Right Pasta: Short, ridged pasta (like fusilli or penne) holds the dressing better than smooth pasta.
• Cool the Pasta Properly: Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: It makes a world of difference! Mini bocconcini or torn burrata add an extra creamy touch.
• Chill Before Serving: The salad tastes even better after resting, so let it sit for 30 minutes before serving.
• Balance the Flavors: If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to lighten it up.

Creative Variations

• Add Protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon make it a full meal.
• More Greens: Swap spinach for arugula, kale, or fresh basil for extra freshness.
• Different Cheese: Try feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan instead of mozzarella.
• Extra Crunch: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds add great texture.
• Spicy Kick: A dash of red pepper flakes gives it some heat.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Perfect with grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches.
• On Its Own: A satisfying meal, especially with added protein.
• At a Party: A hit at BBQs, picnics, and potlucks.
• With Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for the ultimate comfort meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
• Make Ahead: Prep the dressing and veggies ahead of time—just mix before serving.
• No Freezing: The creamy dressing doesn’t freeze well.

The Bottom Line:

This Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad is the perfect blend of fresh, creamy, and tangy flavors—an absolute must-try! So grab your ingredients, whip it up, and watch it disappear. Let us know how it turned out in the comments.

FAQs

Also Read:

19 Best Creamy Pasta Salad Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings