Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings or make-ahead lunches. This cold tortellini pasta salad features tender cheese tortellini, tossed with vibrant basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh baby spinach, and creamy mozzarella pearls.
Optional add-ins like sun-dried tomatoes or pine nuts add texture and richness. To prepare, cook the tortellini until al dente, rinse under cold water, then combine with the pesto, vegetables, and cheese. Chill before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Refreshing Pesto Tortellini Salad
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of basil pesto and the freshness of garden ingredients. This cold tortellini pasta salad is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, offering a satisfying and vibrant option for any meal.
Featuring tender cheese tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crisp baby spinach, this salad is not just a feast for the palate but also for the eyes. The creamy mozzarella pearls add a touch of indulgence, making it a crowd-pleaser at picnics and potlucks alike.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of this Pesto Tortellini Salad lies in its colorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The bright cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness, while the fresh spinach adds a crunchy contrast.
Incorporating optional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and toasted pine nuts can elevate the dish even further, introducing additional layers of flavor and texture. The combination of these ingredients makes this Pasta Salad With Tortellini a versatile choice for any occasion.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this Cheese Tortellini Salad is straightforward and quick, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by cooking the tortellini until al dente, then rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.
Next, combine the cooked tortellini with basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and mozzarella pearls in a large bowl. Toss everything together, ensuring that each piece is coated in the vibrant pesto. Season with salt and pepper to taste for an added kick.
Chilling for Flavor
Once combined, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a refreshing dish that is perfect for serving cold.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients. This step ensures that every bite is as flavorful as the last, making your Pesto Pasta Salad a hit among guests.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cold Tortellini Pasta Salad in a rustic bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of pine nuts for added crunch. The presentation is enhanced by the backdrop of a sunny outdoor picnic setting, making it an inviting centerpiece for any gathering.
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, from casual lunches to festive celebrations.
Nutritional Benefits
This Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. With a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, it provides a satisfying meal option.
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, making it a guilt-free choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious dish without compromising on health. The combination of fresh vegetables and cheese ensures that you get essential nutrients while savoring every bite.
Refreshing Pesto Tortellini Salad
This Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad delivers irresistible flavor in every bite. It can be served as a creamy pesto tortellini salad or a light pasta salad with tortellini, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and mozzarella pearls. If using, add sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts.
- Season: Toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Toss again before serving and enjoy your refreshing Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g