Pesto pasta salad is a delicious, nutritious, and convenient meal prep option that brings together fresh flavors with the ease of preparation. Whether you’re a busy professional or someone trying to eat healthier, this recipe is an ideal addition to your meal plan. Let’s dive into what makes pesto pasta salad a standout choice!
You can view my full collection of plant-based meal prep recipes here.
What Is Pesto Pasta Salad?
Pesto pasta salad is a cold, refreshing dish made with orzo pasta, a variety of fresh vegetables, and a basil pesto dressing. It’s typically enjoyed as a side dish or light meal, and it works wonderfully for meal prepping. This dish is especially great because it holds up well in the fridge, meaning you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
Why Choose Pesto Pasta Salad for Meal Prep?
Meal prepping can save you time, money, and effort throughout the week. Pesto pasta salad fits perfectly into this category because it’s easy to assemble, stays fresh in the fridge, and can be customized to fit your dietary needs. With pesto as the star of the show, you get bold flavors, while ingredients like chickpeas and sunflower seeds add protein and crunch.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Dressing Ingredients:
- Basil pesto from the jar (vegan if desired)
- Red wine vinegar
- Extra virgin olive oil
Main Ingredients:
- Chickpeas (canned, rinsed, and drained)
- Orzo (a small rice-like pasta)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh basil (can be substituted with parsley or omitted)
- Arugula
- Salted sunflower seeds
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences:
- For gluten-free options, swap the orzo for gluten-free pasta.
- If you prefer more protein, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu.
- You can replace arugula with spinach for a milder flavor.
Helpful Tools for Pesto Pasta Salad Meal Prep
To make your pesto pasta salad meal prep smooth and easy, here are some helpful tools you may want to have on hand:
- Jars or airtight containers: Perfect for storing individual portions.
- Mixing bowls: To combine your dressing and ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise dressing proportions.
- Pasta strainer: To drain the cooked orzo.
- Sharp knife: For chopping vegetables.
- Wooden spoon: For mixing everything together.
How to Make Pesto Pasta Salad (Step-by-Step)
1. Cooking the Orzo
Start by cooking the orzo to al dente, following the package instructions. Once it’s ready, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together.
2. Making the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together the basil pesto, red wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. The vinegar and oil help thin out the pesto to create a tangy and well-balanced dressing.
3. Layering Your Jars
Begin by adding the dressing to the bottom of your jars or containers.
Next, layer in the chickpeas, cooked orzo, cherry tomatoes, arugula, fresh basil (if using), and top with sunflower seeds.
This layering method keeps the salad fresh and ensures it doesn’t get soggy.
4. Store and Enjoy
Seal the jars or containers tightly and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just shake the jar to mix the dressing and ingredients.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Pesto Pasta Salad
- Maximizing Flavor: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before eating to let the flavors meld together.
- Ensuring Freshness: Keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to eat if you prefer an even fresher taste.
- Meal Prep Tips: Make a large batch at the start of the week and portion it out for grab-and-go lunches.
Customizing Your Pesto Pasta Salad
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are a few ways to customize it:
- Adding Proteins: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Switching Up Vegetables: Swap the cherry tomatoes for roasted red peppers, cucumbers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Why Pesto Pasta Salad Is Perfect for On-the-Go Meals
If you’re always on the go, pesto pasta salad is a lifesaver. It’s portable, nutritious, and quick to eat without reheating. Plus, it’s packed with a variety of nutrients, making it an excellent option for maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure the orzo is cooked al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Not Adding Enough Dressing: Skimping on the dressing can make the salad dry.
- Not Letting the Salad Rest: Give the salad time to absorb all the flavors for a more enjoyable experience.
FAQs
Pesto pasta salad is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing it may alter the texture of the pasta and vegetables.
Yes, you can use any small pasta like bowtie or penne if you don’t have orzo.
It can be stored for up to 5 days, but it’s best within the first 3 days.
Pesto Pasta Salad Meal Prep
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¼ cup basil pesto from the jar (vegan if desired)
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Jars
- 1 19oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup dry orzo
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
- ¼ cup fresh basil (if you can't find it parsley will work or just omit)
- 4 handfuls arugula
- ¼ cup salted sunflower seeds
Instructions
- Start by cooking the orzo al dente according to the package instructions.
- When the pasta is cooked, rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Mix together the basil pesto, vinegar, and olive oil. The olive oil and vinegar will help thin out the pesto to make it into a dressing.
- Layer your jars by first adding the dressing, then chickpeas, cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, arugula, and sunflower seeds.
- Store in the fridge, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Conclusion: Pesto Pasta Salad Meal Prep
Pesto pasta salad is an easy, flavorful, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for meal prep. Its versatility allows you to adapt it to your taste and dietary preferences, making it a go-to dish for busy weeks. Try this recipe for your next meal prep, and enjoy delicious, healthy meals without the hassle!
Yum loved this meal prep!! The pesto orzo and chickpea was a beautiful combination of flavors
Thank you so much Anna! So glad you loved it 🙂
Pesto pasta flavors we’re so delicious starting in the new year I’m going to try eating plant based at least 5 days a week and have found your site and recipes such a gold mine of flavor!
oh wow thank you SO much!!! I’m so happy you’ve been loving the recipes and that they will help with eating more plant based! That’s so cool you are trying it out 5 days a week. Pleaseee let me know if you have any requests for recipes! 🙂