Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe

Main Dish
Very Easy
35 min

The first time I tried this cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella was during an impromptu lunch with friends in the middle of summer. Few ingredients, no desire to cook and the need for something fresh and tasty: the result became a summer habit. Arugula pesto adds a slightly spicy aromatic note, cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and color, and mozzarella binds everything together with a smooth and creamy texture. Easy to prepare, perfect for serving cold and also ideal for taking to the office or a picnic, it is one of the most versatile recipes for the warmer months.

Ingredients

2

For the arugula pesto:

Materials

  • Cooker
  • Blender
  • Salad bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Preparation

Preparation20 min
Waiting time5 min
Cook time10 min
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 1Cook the pasta in plenty of salted water, carefully following the times indicated on the package to achieve perfect al dente cooking.
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 2In the meantime, thoroughly wash the arugula, dry it and transfer it to the mouthpiece of a blender along with the pine nuts, Parmesan cheese and garlic. Blend at low speed to begin creating the base of the pesto.
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 3Add a pinch of salt, drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil, and continue blending until the arugula pesto has a creamy, smooth consistency.
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 4When the pasta is cooked, drain it and run it under a stream of cold water to stop the cooking. Transfer it to a large salad bowl.
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 5Wash the cherry tomatoes, dry them and cut them into four wedges. Cut the mozzarella cheese into cubes as well.
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 6Season the pasta with the arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Stir carefully to distribute the dressing well.
  • Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella: fresh and quick summer recipe - Preparation step 7Plate, add diced mozzarella and serve. Cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella cheese is ready.

Rate this recipe

Observations

How best to store cold pasta with arugula pesto, cherry tomatoes and mozzarella?

To maintain freshness and flavor, store the cold pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 24 hours to prevent the mozzarella from losing texture and the pesto from oxidizing.

What variations can be made to the arugula pesto for this recipe?

You can replace the pine nuts with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor, or add a little lemon juice for a fresher, more tart note.

Is it possible to make this cold pasta with arugula pesto in advance for a picnic or lunch out?

Yes, it is ideal to be prepared in advance; we recommend adding the mozzarella just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

What is the secret to making a creamy and not too bitter arugula pesto?

Wash the arugula well and dry it thoroughly, use good quality extra virgin olive oil, and blend at low speed to prevent the pesto from heating up too much and becoming bitter.

Can I use other types of pasta for this summer recipe?

Certainly, short pasta such as fusilli, farfalle or tortiglioni work well because they retain the sauce, but whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are also good alternatives.

Is it possible to use a pesto other than arugula?

Absolutely. Basil pesto is the most common alternative, but a zucchini pesto can also work well in this summer recipe.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with feta, or fresh scamorza for a different but still fresh taste.

Cookware

burner

Attributes

Refrigerator storage
Zero waste
PetitChef_OfficialPetitChef_Official

Questions

Photos of members who cooked this recipe

Comments

Rate this recipe: