Description
This Pesto Tortellini Salad with Fresh Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful blend of creamy tortellini, vibrant pesto, and juicy tomatoes, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s a quick and satisfying dish that bursts with summery flavors and is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- Fresh cheese tortellini
- Basil pesto
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or mozzarella pearls)
- Red onion
- Toasted pine nuts (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fresh cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until they are al dente, usually about 2-4 minutes.
- Rinse and Cool: Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse under cold running water until completely cool. Let it drain thoroughly.
- Prep Your Veggies and Cheese: Halve the cherry tomatoes, drain the fresh mozzarella balls, and thinly slice the red onion.
- Combine in a Large Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, drained mozzarella balls, and sliced red onion.
- Add the Pesto: Spoon a generous amount of basil pesto over the ingredients in the bowl, starting with about 1/2 cup.
- Gently Toss: Using a large spoon or rubber spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated in the pesto.
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling and Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: For the best texture, do not overcook the tortellini. Rinse thoroughly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Feel free to add extra veggies or protein for a heartier meal. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavor.