Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe with Mozzarella and Cherry Tomatoes

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of fresh pesto pasta loaded with vibrant ingredients. This Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe combines silky pasta, peppery arugula, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and a bright homemade pesto sauce to create a meal that tastes as beautiful as it looks. Every bite is packed with fresh flavors that make this dish perfect for spring and summer dinners.

What I love most about this pasta recipe is how light yet satisfying it feels. The peppery arugula balances the richness of the pesto and mozzarella, while the tomatoes add bursts of sweetness throughout the dish. If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes as much as fresh pesto recipes, be sure to check out my Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Pasta Recipe, which features tender chicken and a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce for the ultimate comfort-food dinner.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe

• 12 oz spaghetti or bucatini pasta
• 3 cups fresh arugula
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves
• ⅓ cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz mozzarella pearls
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Extra Parmesan for serving

Note: Fresh arugula provides the signature peppery flavor that makes this pesto unique and vibrant.

Variations

You can easily customize this Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe:

• Add grilled chicken for extra protein.
• Use burrata instead of mozzarella pearls.
• Add roasted shrimp.
• Substitute walnuts for pine nuts.
• Add avocado for extra creaminess.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Add roasted vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Large pot
• Food processor
• Colander
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

How to Make Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe?

This fresh pesto pasta comes together quickly and requires very little cooking. While the pasta boils, you’ll prepare the pesto and fresh toppings.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

Make the Arugula Pesto

Add the arugula, basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a food processor.

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Pesto

Transfer the warm pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Add the arugula pesto and toss until every strand is coated.

Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Add the Toppings

Gently fold in the mozzarella pearls and cherry tomatoes.

Add a handful of fresh arugula and toss lightly.

Finish and Serve

Transfer to a serving bowl.

Top with extra Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and freshly cracked black pepper.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
• Don’t overcook the pasta.
• Reserve pasta water before draining.
• Use fresh arugula for the brightest flavor.
• Toast the pine nuts for extra depth.
• Serve immediately for the best texture.

How to Serve Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe?

Serve this Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe in a large shallow pasta bowl topped with extra mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, fresh arugula leaves, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with garlic bread and a light garden salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

The bright green pesto, creamy mozzarella, and colorful tomatoes create a stunning presentation that feels elegant enough for entertaining while remaining simple enough for everyday dinners.

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving:

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

The pesto can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Enjoy cold as a pasta salad or gently reheat with a splash of water.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Fresh and Flavorful

Every bite is packed with vibrant summer flavors.

Quick and Easy

Ready in only 25 minutes.

Perfect for Entertaining

Beautiful enough for guests and special occasions.

Family-Friendly

Simple ingredients everyone enjoys.

Great Summer Pasta

Light, fresh, and perfect for warm weather meals.

Conclusion

This Arugula Pesto Pasta Recipe is everything a great pasta dish should be—fresh, flavorful, colorful, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of peppery arugula pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a meal that feels both comforting and refreshing.

Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, a summer gathering, or a special family meal, this vibrant pesto pasta is guaranteed to impress. One forkful of the silky pesto-coated pasta and you’ll understand why this recipe is such a favorite.