Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad

Looking for a simple and delicious pasta salad recipe? This Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad combines cheesy tortellini, fresh cherry tomatoes, marinated mozzarella, and pesto for a flavorful, vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a dish to bring to a potluck, this tortellini pasta salad is sure to impress. Ready in minutes, it’s an ideal choice for meal prep, as it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. This dish is vegetarian, full of fresh ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite veggies or cheese!

Ingredients:

• 1 (20 oz) bag cheese tortellini
• 1 cup pesto
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
• 1 (12 oz) container marinated mozzarella balls, drained
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 1 1/2 minutes, being careful not to overcook.
2. Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water until cooled.
3. Place the cooled tortellini in a large serving bowl.
4. Add the pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and diced red onion to the bowl.
5. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the pesto.
6. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of pesto with fresh, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tangy red onion. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing side dish at any gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for a few days, making it great for meal prep!

Tips

• To save time, use store-bought pesto, or make your own for an extra burst of flavor.
• For a creamier version, consider adding a few tablespoons of ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt.
• If you prefer a bit of crunch, add some chopped nuts, like pine nuts or toasted walnuts, for extra texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Tortellini: You can use any type of tortellini—spinach, mushroom, or even gluten-free tortellini if needed.
• Cheese: Swap the marinated mozzarella for fresh mozzarella or even feta cheese for a different twist.
• Vegetables: Add other veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for added flavor and crunch.
• Pesto: If you don’t have basil pesto, try using sun-dried tomato pesto or even a dairy-free pesto for a different variation.

FAQs

• Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more over time.
• Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute the cheese tortellini with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
• Can I serve it warm? While this pasta salad is typically served chilled, you can enjoy it warm by simply serving it right after tossing everything together.

Serving Suggestions

This pesto tortellini pasta salad is a great standalone dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a light side dish with any meal. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a few fresh basil leaves on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!