Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Farfalle Pasta Recipe with Pesto & Mozzarella – Easy Summer Meal

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, delicious meal that feels a little bit special, especially during the warmer months. This Farfalle Pasta with Pesto & Mozzarella is exactly that. It’s bright, fresh, and comes together in under 15 minutes – seriously! I first made this when I was craving something light and flavorful, and it’s been a summer staple ever since. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another pasta dish. It’s a burst of summer flavors in every bite! The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, the fragrant basil pesto, and the creamy mozzarella all work together beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend lunch, or even a picnic.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful pasta:

• 4 cups cooked Farfalle pasta
• 0.75 cup basil pesto (about 150ml)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (about 15ml)
• 1 cup grape/cherry tomatoes, halved (about 150g)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cubed (about 225g)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, to garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference in this recipe.

Farfalle Pasta: Choosing the Right Shape

Farfalle, also known as bow-tie pasta, is my go-to for this recipe. Its shape holds the pesto and mozzarella beautifully! But feel free to experiment – penne or fusilli would also work well.

Basil Pesto: Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Honestly? Both are great! If you have the time, homemade pesto is unbeatable. But a good quality store-bought pesto will do the trick in a pinch. Just check the ingredients list and opt for one with fresh basil as the star.

Mozzarella: Fresh vs. Low-Moisture

Fresh mozzarella is key here. The soft, milky texture is what makes this pasta so special. Low-moisture mozzarella won’t give you the same creamy result. Look for mozzarella packed in water.

Olive Oil: Best Types for Flavor

Extra virgin olive oil is always a good choice for its rich flavor. A lighter olive oil works too, if that’s what you have on hand.

Cherry Tomatoes: Seasonal Sweetness

Cherry or grape tomatoes are best when they’re in season (summer!). They’re naturally sweeter and more flavorful. If you can find heirloom cherry tomatoes, even better!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part!

1. First, cook your farfalle pasta al dente according to the package directions. Don’t overcook it – we want a little bite! Once it’s ready, drain it well and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle the cooked pasta with olive oil and add the halved cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together gently to coat.
3. Now, add the basil pesto to the bowl. Mix thoroughly, making sure every strand of pasta is coated in that gorgeous green goodness.
4. Gently fold in the cubed fresh mozzarella. Be careful not to break it up too much!
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. And finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Doesn’t that look amazing?

Expert Tips

Want to take this pasta to the next level? Here are a few of my secrets:

Perfecting Pasta Al Dente

“Al dente” means “to the tooth” in Italian. The pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Start checking for doneness a minute or two before the package directions suggest.

Enhancing Pesto Flavor

A squeeze of lemon juice can really brighten up the pesto flavor. Add about a teaspoon to the pasta along with the pesto.

Preventing Mozzarella From Melting Too Much

If you’re worried about the mozzarella melting too much, you can add it just before serving. Or, chill the pasta for a few minutes after adding the mozzarella to help it firm up.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

Vegan Pesto Pasta

Swap the mozzarella for a vegan mozzarella alternative, or simply omit it. You can also find delicious vegan pesto options at most grocery stores. My friend, Sarah, swears by the cashew-based pesto!

Gluten-Free Pasta Option

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta! There are some great options available now that hold their shape and texture well.

Spice Level: Adding a Kick

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta for a little heat. My husband loves this!

Summer Vegetable Additions

Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or even corn would be fantastic additions.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas for rounding out your meal:

Pairing with Salads

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment.

Wine Recommendations

A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would pair beautifully with this pasta.

Ideal for Picnics & BBQs

This pasta travels well, making it perfect for picnics and BBQs! Just keep it chilled until serving.

Storage Instructions

Storing Leftover Pasta

Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may need to add a splash of olive oil or water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or rotini would all work well.

What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?

While fresh mozzarella is best, you can use low-moisture mozzarella in a pinch. Just be aware that the texture won’t be quite as creamy.

How can I make my own basil pesto?

There are tons of recipes online! A basic pesto recipe includes fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.

Can this pasta salad be served cold?

Absolutely! It’s delicious served cold or at room temperature.

How long will the pasta keep in the refrigerator?

Up to 3 days in an airtight container.