This Pesto Pasta Salad is delicious and can be prepared in under 20 minutes using only a few ingredients.

This salad is perfect for a gathering or barbecue as it can be made beforehand. It contains pesto, mayo, cucumbers, tomatoes, mozzarella, and noodles, making it a popular choice for a large group.

bowl of pesto pasta salad with vegetables

Pesto Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser ideal for any event, from small get-togethers to large family reunions. It’s a dish that’s as much about the flavor as the texture.

Combining zesty pesto, al dente pasta, and savory vegetables creates an incredible side dish, or add chicken and make it a meal!

overhead shot of bowl of pesto pasta salad with vegetables

ingredients for pesto pasta salad

Pasta shells – I love medium-sized pasta shells, but any pasta, even linguine, will work.
Mayo – this balances out the oil in the pesto and adds a touch of creaminess.
Pesto—While you can make this from scratch, I prefer the “easier” route and buy store-bought. I love Rana Basil Pesto because it tastes incredibly fresh.
Cherry tomatoes – fresh is always best!
Mini cucumbers – I prefer these, but English cucumbers would work, too; I love the sweet touch the mini cucumbers give to the pasta salad.
String cheese sticks—I mean, who doesn’t always have these in one hand? I love using them in all sorts of dishes.

Making your Pesto Pasta Salad

Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water.

Add the pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, and cheese cubes to a large mixing bowl; toss to combine.

In a small mixing bowl, stir the pesto and mayo until well combined.

Pour pesto/mayo over pasta and toss to combine.

Garnish with parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or toasted pinenuts if desired.

More pasta salad recipes!

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