This easy Pesto Quinoa Salad with Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella makes a bright, flavorful main course or side dish that comes together quickly. It captures the classic Caprese flavors — ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil-forward pesto — while cooked quinoa adds satisfying texture and protein.
Start with quinoa
Begin with cooked, cooled quinoa. I often cook a batch ahead and keep it in the fridge to add to salads and bowls all week. A basic quinoa recipe needs only quinoa, water and a pinch of salt. One cup of uncooked quinoa yields about 2 ½–3 cups cooked, which is the amount used here. Any color quinoa works; I prefer the light brown variety for this salad because it’s widely available and has a mild flavor.
Choosing pesto for the salad
Use your favorite store-bought pesto or make your own. A refrigerated or frozen pesto typically offers fresher flavor than shelf-stable jars. I keep Simple Walnut Pesto on hand — it freezes well and works beautifully in this salad. Half a cup of pesto is all you need to dress the quinoa and other ingredients.
Cheese choices and ingredient swaps
Small fresh mozzarella balls labeled Ciliegine (cherry-sized) are ideal here. You can also use slightly smaller Noccioline, chop larger balls, or substitute chunks of feta for a different flavor profile. The salad is delicious on its own or served with grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier meal.
This is one of my favorite quick salads — flavorful, colorful and easy to prepare. It also holds up well the next day.
Easy Pesto Quinoa Salad with Tomatoes & Fresh Mozzarella
K.C. Cornwell
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup pesto homemade or store-bought
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 ½ cups cooked quinoa
- 1 pint quartered cherry or grape tomatoes
- 6 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, whisk together the pesto, extra-virgin olive oil and pepper.
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Add the cooked, cooled quinoa, quartered tomatoes and fresh mozzarella (bite-sized or cubed).
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Toss gently, season with salt to taste, and serve.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Photos: Meg van der Kruik — who now makes this quinoa salad on repeat!
Is Quinoa Gluten-Free? Learn All About Quinoa + Basic Recipe
Quinoa is a naturally gluten-free ancient grain and a versatile pantry staple. Use cooked quinoa to boost salads, bowls and soups. For details on cooking and handling, see the referenced basic quinoa guide.