Description
This Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy the creamy tortellini coated in aromatic pesto, paired with sweet cherry tomatoes for a refreshing dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 18–20 oz cheese-filled tortellini
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (or more to taste)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or pearl mozzarella) – optional
- Red onion, thinly sliced – optional
- Fresh arugula or baby spinach – optional
- Cooked, shredded grilled chicken – optional
- Cannellini beans or chickpeas – optional
- Fresh lemon juice – optional
- Balsamic glaze – optional
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your tortellini and cook according to package directions until it's al dente.
- Cool the Tortellini: Drain the tortellini thoroughly and rinse it under cold water for about 1-2 minutes to stop the cooking process. Let it drain well.
- Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly and halve each one.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, and desired amount of pesto.
- Add Optional Goodies: Toss in any optional ingredients like fresh mozzarella, red onion, or cooked protein.
- Toss Gently: Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated with the pesto.
- Season and Taste: Taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Chill (Recommended): Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Don't overcook the tortellini to avoid mushiness. Use high-quality pesto for the best flavor, and consider adding fresh greens just before serving for added freshness.