Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad Recipe
This Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad is a quick and flavorful dish perfect as a side or light main. Ready in under 30 minutes, it features tender cheese tortellini mixed with fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, red onion, mozzarella pearls, arugula, spinach, and black olives, all tossed in a vibrant basil pesto. Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or easy meal prep, this salad is fresh, herby, and satisfying served chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 18 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 cup arugula
- 1 cup baby spinach
- ½ cup sliced black olives, drained
Dairy
- 8 ounces mozzarella pearls, drained
Condiments and Seasoning
- 1 ¼ cup basil pesto
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, approximately 3 to 4 minutes, until tender. Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool them quickly. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: To the bowl with tortellini, add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red onion, mozzarella pearls, arugula, baby spinach, and sliced black olives.
- Add Pesto and Season: Pour the basil pesto over the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste, if using. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated and the salad looks fresh and glossy.
- Chill to Marry Flavors: If possible, cover the salad and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Final Toss and Serve: Before serving, give the salad one final toss to redistribute the pesto and flavors evenly. Serve chilled and enjoy as a refreshing, easy meal or side dish.
Notes
- Using refrigerated tortellini speeds up prep and adds a tender texture.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor blending but can be served immediately if short on time.
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or toasted pine nuts for extra protein and crunch.
- Use fresh basil pesto for best flavor, or substitute with store-bought for convenience.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
Find it online: https://familyhomemeals.com/tortellini-pesto-pasta-salad-recipe/
