4 Ingredient Pasta Salad Recipe
This 4-ingredient pasta salad is a quick and easy summer favorite. With just four ingredients, it’s a perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, or a fast dinner. The recipe is both affordable and versatile, offering a refreshing and balanced meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 box of pasta fusilli, elbow macaroni, or orecchiette
- 1/2 cup store-bought pesto
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls marinated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
Instructions
- Boil 5 quarts of salted water, adding 2 tablespoons of sea salt.
- Cook 1 lb of pasta according to the package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the other ingredients: cut the cherry tomatoes in half and cube the mozzarella.
- Drain the pasta and toss with 1/2 cup of pesto dressing.
- Cool for about 10 minutes, then mix in the tomatoes, mozzarella, and remaining pesto.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours to let the flavors blend.
- Stir and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
- This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- To keep the pasta from sticking, rinse it in cold water after cooking and toss it with olive oil.
- You can customize this salad by adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas, or use a gluten-free pasta option if needed.
- For a richer flavor, drizzle extra virgin olive oil or mix in sliced black olives or bell peppers.