Summer pasta salad with peaches, spinach, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese is one of those dishes that just screams summer in every bite. It’s fresh, colorful, and packed with flavors that play so well together, you’ll wonder why you didn’t toss this combo together sooner. If you’re after a salad that’s easy to throw together but still impressive enough to wow your friends, this is it.
Why You’ll Love Summer Pasta Salad
This salad hits all the right notes: sweet peaches, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and that fresh spinach crunch. It feels light but still satisfying, perfect for those hot days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be a side dish or a main event if you add some protein. Ever had a salad that makes you actually excited to eat greens? This one does that.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the lineup for this tasty pasta salad:
- Pasta (I like bowties or rotini because they hold dressing well)
- Fresh peaches, sliced (ripe but firm works best)
- Baby spinach leaves, washed and dried
- Cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar or a good-quality balsamic glaze
- Fresh basil leaves (optional but highly recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How I Make Summer Pasta Salad
Here’s my go-to method that keeps everything fresh and flavorful:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.
- While pasta cooks, slice the peaches and halve the tomatoes. Tear the mozzarella balls into bite-sized pieces if they’re large.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, peaches, spinach, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad. Toss gently to coat everything without squishing the peaches.
- Season with salt and pepper, then add torn fresh basil leaves for a fragrant lift.
- Give it one last gentle toss and taste. Adjust seasoning or add a splash more balsamic if you want it tangier.
This salad comes together in about 20 minutes, and I swear it tastes like a summer party in your mouth.
Serving This Summer Pasta Salad
Wondering when to bring this salad out? Here are some ideas:
- As a side for grilled chicken or fish
- Packed in a lunchbox for a refreshing midday meal
- At a picnic or potluck where you want to impress without stress
- Served chilled on a hot day when the last thing you want is a heavy meal
Helpful Tips
- Use ripe peaches but not mushy ones; they hold shape better and add a nice texture contrast.
- Don’t overdress the salad. A little olive oil and balsamic go a long way without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- If you’re short on fresh basil, a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs can work in a pinch.
Variations I’ve Tried And Loved
Sometimes I switch things up because variety is the spice of life:
- Swap out mozzarella for feta for a tangier bite.
- Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
- Toss in some grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Use arugula instead of spinach for a peppery twist.
Leftovers and Storage
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to two days, but the peaches might get a bit softer over time. If you want to prep ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what I’ve seen trip people up:
- Overcooking pasta – mushy pasta kills the texture.
- Using underripe peaches – they taste sour and don’t have that sweet pop.
- Overdressing the salad – it can get soggy fast.
- Forgetting to season – salt and pepper make all the difference.
Why You Should Try This Summer Pasta Salad
This salad is a total game-changer for summer meals. It’s quick, fresh, and packed with flavors that balance sweet, savory, and tangy perfectly. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some greens without feeling like you’re eating a boring salad. If you want a dish that’s simple but feels special, give this one a go. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. And hey, if nothing else, it’s a great excuse to eat peaches for dinner!