Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

Berry Pesto Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that shines during summer gatherings. This vibrant salad combines the sweetness of strawberries and blackberries with the peppery bite of arugula, all tossed in a creamy pesto dressing. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side for your favorite grilled meats, this dish is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright flavors: The combination of fresh berries and pesto creates a unique taste sensation that is both sweet and savory.
• Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this pasta salad comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy days.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or side—this salad pairs well with many meals and occasions.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with vitamins from the berries and greens, it’s a healthy option that’s also delicious.
• Eye-catching presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients makes this salad visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Berry Pesto Pasta Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. These will help streamline the process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large serving bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for cooking the pasta evenly to achieve the perfect texture.
• Colander: Essential for draining the pasta quickly while preventing it from becoming soggy.
• Large serving bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dressing smoothly, ensuring even coating over the pasta salad.

Ingredients

Berry Pesto Pasta Salad is the perfect side dish for summer! Strawberries, blackberries, arugula, mini mozzarella balls, and pasta tossed in an easy pesto dressing.

For the Pasta Base

• 12 ounces Delallo Shellbow Pasta

For the Salad Mix

• 3 cups baby arugula
• 1 cup diced strawberries
• 1 cup blackberries
• 1/2 cup mini fresh mozzarella balls
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

For the Dressing

• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
• 3 – 4 tablespoons Delallo Simply Pesto Traditional Basil
• 2 tablespoons chicken champagne vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• Balsamic glaze to drizzle on top of the salad (optional but recommended)

How to Make Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain using a colander and allow it to cool to room temperature. You can rinse under cold water if you need to speed up this process.
3. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large serving bowl.

Step 2: Combine Fresh Ingredients

1. Add the baby arugula, chopped basil, diced strawberries, blackberries, and mini mozzarella balls into the bowl with the pasta.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the pesto, chicken champagne vinegar, and honey until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

1. Pour the dressing onto the pasta salad mixture.
2. Gently stir everything together until all ingredients are well-coated in the pesto dressing.

Step 5: Season & Serve

1. Taste your salad and season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper as needed.
2. If it seems dry, add an extra tablespoon of pesto for moisture.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze on top just before serving for added flavor.

Enjoy your Berry Pesto Pasta Salad at your next gathering!

How to Serve Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

Berry Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. Its fresh ingredients and unique flavors make it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or casual dinners.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve chilled on its own for a refreshing lunch option.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair with grilled chicken for a hearty protein addition that complements the salad’s flavors.

Alongside Fish Tacos

• The zesty pesto and berries provide a delightful contrast to the spiciness of fish tacos.

With a Light Vinaigrette

• Drizzle additional vinaigrette on top for an extra layer of flavor before serving.

At Summer BBQs

• Bring it to barbeques as a colorful side that will impress guests and enhance the meal.

How to Perfect Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

To ensure your Berry Pesto Pasta Salad is always a hit, follow these tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries, blackberries, and arugula bring out the best flavors in the salad.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just right keeps it firm and prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with dressing.

• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

• Taste for Balance: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after mixing; this ensures every bite is flavorful.

• Experiment with Nuts: Adding pine nuts or walnuts can add crunch and depth to your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

Berry Pesto Pasta Salad pairs well with various side dishes to create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables
   A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds smoky flavors to your plate.

2. Caprese Skewers
   These skewers combine fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes for an easy appetizer that echoes the salad’s freshness.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and lemon offers a healthy alternative packed with protein.

4. Roasted Chickpeas
   Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices provide a satisfying snack or side dish that’s rich in fiber.

5. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter bring comfort and warmth alongside your refreshing pasta salad.

6. Fruit Platter
   A seasonal fruit platter can enhance the meal by offering sweet, juicy bites that pair well with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Berry Pesto Pasta Salad can be simple, but avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Boldly skip cooling the pasta: Not letting the pasta cool can cause wilting in the salad. After cooking, allow it to reach room temperature before mixing in other ingredients.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Failing to season properly can leave your salad bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper after adding the dressing.
• Boldly ignore fresh ingredients: Using stale or overly ripe fruits can ruin the flavor profile. Select fresh strawberries and blackberries for the best taste.
• Boldly skimp on pesto: Adding too little pesto can make the salad dry. Use enough pesto to coat all ingredients evenly; if needed, add an extra tablespoon.
• Boldly forget presentation: Neglecting to drizzle balsamic glaze can make your dish less appealing. A drizzle adds both flavor and a beautiful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad separate from dressings if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of fresh ingredients.
• If you must freeze, do so without cheese or delicate greens; consume within 1 month.

Reheating Berry Pesto Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread in a baking dish and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Berry Pesto Pasta Salad.

How do I customize my Berry Pesto Pasta Salad?

You can add other veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for added crunch. Consider using different types of cheese or nuts for extra flavor and texture!

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver. Just check the ingredients to ensure it meets your dietary preferences.

What can I serve with Berry Pesto Pasta Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues.

How long does Berry Pesto Pasta Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Berry Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings. Its mix of sweet berries and savory pesto offers great versatility. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste!