Go Back
As the heat of summer rolls in, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing chilled pasta dish to satisfy your cravings while keeping you cool. When the temperatures rise, hearty meals can often feel overwhelming, leading many to seek lighter, more invigorating options. Enter *Chilled Pesto Perfection with Cherry Bombs*, a vibrant and delicious pasta salad that not only embraces the essence of summer but also showcases the freshest ingredients.

Cold Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

Discover the ultimate summer dish with Chilled Pesto Perfection with Cherry Bombs. This vibrant pasta salad combines fresh basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and al dente pasta, creating a light yet satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it's ideal for barbecues, picnics, or relaxing dinners at home. Learn how to make this refreshing delight with our step-by-step guide and enjoy the taste of summer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta

1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed

1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a budget-friendly option)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), optional

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

    Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Pulse a few times until finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is smoothly blended. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

      Combine Pasta and Pesto: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta and prepared pesto. Toss well to ensure that every strand is generously coated in the vibrant sauce.

        Add Cherry Tomatoes: Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, if using. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes.

          Chill the Dish: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta to an airtight container. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to chill.

            Serve: Once chilled, give the pasta a good toss to redistribute the pesto. Garnish with additional basil leaves and a sprinkle of pine nuts or Parmesan, if desired. Serve cold and enjoy!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 4-6