Irresistible Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe to Savor

Imagine a sunny picnic day, the aroma of fresh basil and garlic wafting through the air as you dive into a bowl of Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad. Each bite bursts with flavor, a delightful dance of textures that can make anyone do the happy food shimmy. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that makes you feel like you’re lounging on a Mediterranean terrace, even if you’re actually sitting in your living room wearing pajamas.

Ah, the memories this pasta salad brings! Picture my family gathering around the table, laughter and chatter filling the air as we devour this vibrant dish. It has become our go-to for summer potlucks, barbecues, and even casual Wednesday dinners when we need a little pick-me-up. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be plotting ways to enjoy it year-round.

Nothing beats the joy when my friends take their first bite and declare me a culinary genius (I mean, I’ll take compliments wherever I can get them!).

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Tortellini: Choose cheese-filled tortellini for rich flavor; fresh or frozen works beautifully.

• Pesto Sauce: Use store-bought for speed or homemade for extra love; both options are delightful.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Halve these juicy gems for sweetness; they add color and freshness.

• Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Opt for bocconcini for creamy bites that melt in your mouth.

• Spinach: Use baby spinach leaves for added nutrition without overpowering flavors.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top just before serving for an extra savory kick.

• Olive Oil: Drizzle some high-quality olive oil to enhance flavors; it ties everything together beautifully.

• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish with zesty freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad

Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions until they float; this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine pesto sauce and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well until you have a smooth mixture that’s ready to embrace those tortellini.

Add Fresh Ingredients: Toss in halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and baby spinach. The colors should pop like confetti at a party—so inviting!

Toss Everything Together: Gently fold the cooked tortellini into your vibrant mixture until every piece is coated in that glorious pesto goodness. Be careful not to break those delicate pasta shapes!

Squeeze Some Lemon: For an added zing, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad right before serving. It elevates all those flavors like magic.

Serve & Enjoy: Transfer your masterpiece to a serving bowl or individual plates. Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and perhaps an extra sprinkle of pine nuts if you’re feeling fancy!

Now sit back, relax, and watch as your family dives into this Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad with glee!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the tortellini until tender while mixing the pesto in a large bowl. Combine both for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in any veggies you love, such as cherry tomatoes or spinach, to enhance freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy cold without reheating for best results.

Sharing this recipe always brings smiles; I remember my friends devouring it at a picnic, asking for seconds while I pretended it took hours to prepare!

FAQ

Can I use store-bought pesto for Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and still delivers delicious flavor.

What vegetables can I add to my Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even olives for extra crunch and flavor.

How long does Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of summer to your table. With tender cheese-filled tortellini tossed in creamy pesto, fresh cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls, this salad is both visually stunning and delicious. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners, it’s easy to make and sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy it warm or cold for a delightful meal any time of year.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz cheese tortellini
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 2 cups baby spinach
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp high-quality olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions in salted boiling water until they float (about 3-5 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, mix pesto sauce with olive oil until smooth.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and baby spinach to the bowl.
4. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini until coated with pesto.
5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad before serving.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature, topped with grated Parmesan.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 30mg