Pesto tortellini pasta salad

Looking for a quick, vibrant meal? The Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is your perfect dish! Loaded with fresh ingredients like cheese tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella, this salad bursts with flavor. Discover easy tips for preparation, cooking, and creative variations to make it your own. Whether as a side or main dish, this salad is sure to impress. Click through to get the full recipe and elevate your salad game today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved

1/4 cup black olives, sliced

1/2 cup fresh basil, roughly chopped

1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, and slice the black olives.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, and chopped basil.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetables. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the pesto mixture.

Chill and Serve: For best flavors, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.

Garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the salad for an extra touch of flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6 servings