Could anything start the sun-filled world of outdoor barbecues, cookouts, and picnics quite like a refreshing pesto pasta salad? Here are 6 tasty ways to kick off your summer dinners. Whether it's a cheesy-filled tortellini pasta, a walnut-based pesto, or a quinoa salad, all options are flavor-filled, simple to prepare, and taste better with time (just not too much time). Run, don't walk to try these convenient salads, because jarred pesto can taste just like homemade with the right ingredients.
Rave Review: "Easy to make and I like the fact that the dressing is made fresh and not from a bottle."—Dana from Murrieta
"My 10-year-old daughter Maya and I created this easy but delicious pasta salad, featuring her favorite pesto flavors. This salad is great as the center of a light dinner, or as a side dish," says mpkneip
Rave Review: "This was a huge hit at a family gathering. It had a unique flavor that had everyone asking for the recipe."—Emily
Rave Review: "Seriously amazing. I love how healthy this is and can't wait to eat the leftovers for lunch tomorrow!"—LilSnoo
Rave Review: "The flavors of unique ingredients such as mango and sun-dried tomatoes come together in this scrumptious salad for some excitement for your tastebuds! This can also be served as a light entree." — irumluvstocook
"Need a quick salad for a picnic? Or potluck? This is perfect and fast!" — Renee KralicÂ
"Yep, it's a mouthful to say and a mouthful of flavor!" — Amanda
Rave Review: "A wonderfully light, clean, refreshing, anytime salad. I totally agree with other reviewers, way better the next day!" — SEAHAGTOY