Description
Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, colorful vegetables, and a rich pesto dressing. This dish is perfect as a side or light main course, packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb cheese tortellini
- 1 cup fresh basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked tortellini with pesto sauce until evenly coated.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, black olives, and grated Parmesan cheese to the pasta. Toss gently to combine.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill before serving.
Notes
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or shrimp.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, squeeze a little lemon juice over the salad before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: tortellini pesto salad, pesto pasta salad, cheese tortellini salad, pasta salad with pesto