Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

There’s something about tossing cheese tortellini with vibrant pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella that makes me feel like I’ve transformed into an Italian chef for the day. Let’s dive into the magic of this fresh and flavorful Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad that invites summer into your bowl, no matter the season. 🌿🍅🧀

I love making dishes that are both tasty and healthful, and this Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is a prime example. It’s teeming with cheese tortellini and fresh pesto, so it’s loaded with protein and good-for-you fats.

The raw cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives lend bright flavors, while sun-dried tomatoes and fresh mozzarella balls add a luscious richness. A dusting of Parmesan and some fresh basil takes this simple yet satisfying dish to the next level.

Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Cheese Tortellini: Provides carbohydrates and protein, adding heartiness and texture.
• Pesto Sauce: Rich in healthy fats and flavor, featuring basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Offer a juicy, sweet touch with antioxidants and vitamins.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp flavor and contains antioxidants and fiber.
• Kalamata Olives: Deliver healthy fats and a savory, umami taste.
• Fresh Mozzarella Balls: Creamy, mild, and a source of protein and calcium.

Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini
• 1 cup pesto sauce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make this Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

1. Prepare the cheese tortellini as directed on the package. Drain and allow to cool slightly.

2. In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini and the pesto sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.

3. In the bowl, add the cherry tomatoes cut in half, the finely chopped red onion, the sliced Kalamata olives, and the sliced sun-dried tomatoes.

4. Carefully combine the fresh mozzarella balls with the other ingredients until everything is well blended.

5. Spread freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the salad.

6. Add salt and pepper to taste, making adjustments as necessary.

7. Move the pasta salad to a serving dish or platter.

8. Add fresh basil leaves to the dish for a bright, colorful, and fragrant addition.

9. Let the pasta salad chill for at least half an hour after making, and before serving it. This time in the refrigerator allows the flavors to blend.

10. Chilled or at room temperature, served, and enjoyed is the Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad.

Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Strainer or colander
3. Big mixing bowl
4. Kitchen knife
5. Cutting board
6. Measuring cups
7. Mixing spoon or spatula
8. Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
9. Serving dish or platter
10. Refrigerator

FAQ

• Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?Indeed, while you can use store-bought pesto and achieve great results, using homemade pesto can intensify the flavor and make any dish truly stand out. Following is a basic recipe for making nut-free basil pesto at home.
• Can I add other vegetables to the salad?Certainly! You can include ingredients such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or spinach to boost the freshness factor.
• Is there a substitute for mozzarella balls?Try cubed fresh mozzarella or a different cheese, like feta, for a new twist.
• How should I store leftovers?Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for as long as 3 days.
• Can this dish be served warm?Absolutely, it can be served either warm or at room temperature, but it’s served cold more often than not.
• What type of tortellini should I use?Tortellini with cheese is recommended, but if you prefer, you may use tortellini filled with spinach or meat.

Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

To create a cheese tortellini dish with a different flavor profile, substitute cheese tortellini with one of the following:

• Spinach tortellini
• Ravioli featuring different cheese or meat blends
• A tortellini or ravioli spin with tortellini or ravioli from any cuisine, including African, Asian, or European.
For pesto sauce: Select sun-dried tomato pesto or basil vinaigrette for an out-of-this-world flavor.
To replace cherry tomatoes: Use grape tomatoes or Roma tomatoes that have been diced.
For Kalamata olives: Employ black olives or green olives, should you wish for a gentler flavor.
To replace fresh mozzarella balls: Use cubed feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy option.

Pro Tips

1. Boost Flavor with Marinated Mozzarella: Consider marinating the fresh mozzarella balls in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before adding them to the salad. This will infuse them with extra flavor and enhance the overall dish.