Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

This pesto tortellini pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner. Made with tender tortellini, vibrant vegetables, and a rich pesto dressing, it offers a delightful combination of tastes and textures.

The recipe is simple and can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or entertaining guests.

Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad

A colorful pesto tortellini pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and spinach, garnished with Parmesan and pine nuts.

This pasta salad features al dente tortellini tossed with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and spinach, all coated in a delicious pesto sauce. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: pine nuts or walnuts for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and spinach.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and spinach.
  4. Add Pesto: Pour the pesto sauce over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with pine nuts or walnuts if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4-6 servings
  • Calories: 320kcal
  • Fat: 18g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g

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