This creamy basil pasta salad offers a fresh take on classic pesto flavors, delivering a rich, herby experience without nuts. The recipe combines juicy cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, peppery arugula, and parmesan cheese in a silky dressing made with mayonnaise and cottage cheese. This makes it an ideal choice for make-ahead lunches, summer dinners, or barbecues.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
The salad’s success hinges on the balance of flavors and textures:
- Mayonnaise and Cottage Cheese: The base of the creamy dressing, providing richness without relying solely on oil or heavy cream.
- Fresh Basil: The star herb, delivering the signature pesto-like aroma and taste.
- Cherry and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Offer a burst of sweetness and concentrated umami, complementing the basil.
- Arugula: Adds a peppery bite that cuts through the creaminess, while its durability helps the salad stay fresh longer.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, savory depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
How to Make It: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine mayonnaise, cottage cheese, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper, and fresh basil in a food processor. Blend until smooth. Letting the dressing rest allows the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil bowtie pasta until al dente, generously salting the water for maximum flavor absorption. Rinse with cold water to halt cooking.
- Combine and Toss: Mix the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, and grated parmesan cheese in a large bowl.
- Dress and Serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to fully develop.
Tips for Optimal Results
- Salt the Pasta Water: This is crucial for seasoning the pasta itself, not just the final dish.
- Chill the Dressing: Allowing the dressing to sit beforehand intensifies the flavors. If it’s too thick, add milk or buttermilk to loosen it up.
- Enhance with Herbs: Fresh chives or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile.
- Pair with Protein: Grilled chicken or steak transforms this into a complete meal.
Storage and Longevity
This pasta salad holds up well for 4–5 days in the refrigerator. The arugula contributes to its durability, but the sauce may thicken over time; simply add a splash of liquid to revive it.
This recipe is designed for convenience and flavor. The combination of creamy dressing, fresh herbs, and vibrant tomatoes makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that can be prepared ahead of time without sacrificing taste.
This creamy basil pasta salad is a simple yet satisfying meal or side dish, perfect for any summer occasion.
