Pesto, Pasta and Picnics

There’s something about a pasta salad that makes it a picnic essential. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for outdoor dining. But if you want to take your picnic spread up a notch, try a pasta salad made with pesto – a fresh, flavorful twist on a classic that’s guaranteed to impress.

Pesto pasta salads are picnic winners, and here’s why:

1. It’s Delicious Cold or Room Temp.

Unlike creamy dressings that can get a bit heavy or risky in the sun, pesto is olive-oil based, making it safe and tasty even after sitting out for a bit. It coats the pasta beautifully and holds its flavor without needing to be hot.

2. Super Simple to Prep Ahead

You can whip up pesto pasta salad the night before your picnic. Just cook your pasta (short shapes like fusilli or penne work best), toss it with pesto while it’s still warm to absorb all that herby goodness, and let it chill overnight. Add fresh ingredients in the morning – like cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, mozzarella balls, or roasted veggies.

3. It Travels Like a Pro

No mess, no fuss. Pack it in a container with a tight lid, and you’re good to go. It won’t wilt like leafy salads or need reheating like some mains.

4. It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re feeding vegetarians, picky eaters, or just hungry friends, pesto pasta salad is usually met with an enthusiastic “yes.” It’s easy to customize by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for protein, mixing in chopped, fresh veggies or using gluten-free pasta or fun noodle shapes.

Pesto is typically made by blending basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese and olive oil. The word “pesto” comes from the Italian word pestare, meaning “to pound” or “to crush” – a nod to the traditional method of making it with a mortar and pestle.

Tastefully Simple makes it easier than ever to prep pesto. Just add a bit of olive oil and water to the Dried Tomato & Garlic Pesto Mix. You’ll have fresh pesto in under 10 minutes! And here are a few of our favorite pesto salad recipes to try: