creamy pesto pasta salad

Last summer, I hosted our annual family cookout and was searching for a side dish that would work for the varied tastes in our family. I whipped up this creamy pesto pasta salad, not expecting much reaction – after all, it's just a pasta salad. When my father-in-law, who famously avoids anything green, not only cleaned his plate but actually went back for seconds, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. He even asked what was in the "really good pasta thing," which in 15 years of family gatherings had never happened before.

The magic of this pasta salad is how the creamy pesto sauce clings to every piece of pasta, infusing each bite with fresh basil flavor without being overwhelming. I fold in cherry tomatoes that burst with sweetness, chunks of fresh mozzarella that add richness, and thin slices of red onion for a bit of zip. It all comes together in a dish that's vibrant and flavorful but not too heavy. The best part? It actually tastes better after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours, making it perfect for make-ahead meals or potlucks.

Since that cookout victory, this pasta salad has become my signature contribution to summer gatherings. My neighbor Jen, who considers herself a pasta salad connoisseur, asked for the recipe after trying it at our block party. My kids, who typically pick out any visible herbs in their food, happily devour this without complaint. I've even started keeping a batch in the fridge for quick lunches during busy work weeks – it's just as delicious on day three as it is freshly made.

Ready to add a crowd-pleasing pasta salad to your recipe collection? Click below for the full creamy pesto pasta salad recipe that's sure to convert even the most stubborn green-food avoiders. It's perfect for summer gatherings but delicious enough to enjoy year-round!