Description
Tortellini Pesto Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that transports you to an Italian summer picnic with every bite. Tender cheese-filled tortellini mingles with aromatic basil pesto, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh greens, creating a delightful medley of tastes and textures. This quick-to-make salad is perfect for gatherings or a refreshing weekday lunch. Enjoy it warm or chilled for a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach or arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- If making homemade pesto, blend together fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, spinach (or arugula), and drizzle with olive oil. Toss gently.
- Add pesto sauce and mix until everything is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper as necessary.
- Serve immediately warm or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled version. Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg