This easy pesto tortellini pasta salad is made with fewer than 6 ingredients, packed with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes. This is perfect for quick meals or summer gatherings.
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I love all pasta salad recipes, but this Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad is definitely a favorite. It is perfect for an easy lunch, dinner, or potluck! The classic flavor in this salad is sure to be a hit and will always disappear fast.
If you like this pasta salad, be sure to check out my Tuna Pasta Salad or my Chicken Macaroni Pasta Salad.
Reader Review: "I made this salad for a game night and it was gone so quick. It was so easy, I will definetly make again soon." - Crystal
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Only six ingredients - all are easy to grab at the grocery store.
- Full of fresh summer flavor - this dish is colorful and festive.
- Quick and Easy to Make - This dish can be made in 10 minutes and is perfect for an easy dinner.
- Customizable - versatile and easy to change up.
What Is Tortellini Pasta
Tortellini is a small, ring-shaped stuffed pasta. It oringated form the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. They are traditionally filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are often served in broth or creamy sauces.
Tortellini can be found at grocery stores and is served in many Italian restaurants.
Ingredients
- Tortellini: I chose a cheese tortellini. Use whatever brand you prefer.
- Pesto: Homemade Fresh Basil Pesto or store-bought works well.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Look for firm, fresh tomatoes.
- Mozzarella Balls: These can be found in the specialty cheese section of the grocery store.
- Orange Bell Pepper: Any colored pepper can work here to add sweetness and crunch.
- Red Onion: To add a nice onion flavor.
Tim's Tip: If you choose to use fresh tortellini pasta, make sure not to over-boil. Most only require 1-2 minutes for best results.
How to make Tortellini Pasta Salad
1. Boil Pasta - Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions. Do not overcook!
2. Drain and rinse pasta under cold water until cool.
3. Mix Salad: Place tortellini in a large bowl. Add in pesto, tomatoes, cheese, bell pepper, and onion. Toss well to coat.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
- Vegetable additions - Add in diced zucchini, cucumbers, or Kalamata Olives.
- Add some protein - Add in chopped ham, grilled chicken, chickpeas, or shrimp to make it heartier.
- Try a different dressing - A lemon vinaigrette or a Greek salad dressing would work great.
- Use some fresh herbs - Parsley, basil, and fresh oregano would all be a nice addition.
Tims Tips
- Don't overcook your Pasta- Follow the instructions on the package for cooking. Fresh pasta will only need about 1-2 minutes before being done.
- Make your own pesto - Here is my Fresh Basil Pesto recipe that I love to make. You can freeze pesto to pull it out as needed.
- Use fresh ingredients - Using fresh mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes will make all the difference.
- Make-ahead tip- Save out a little pesto to add in just before serving, because the pasta will absorb the pesto over time.
What to Serve with Pasta Salad
Storage
Refrigeration: Store salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this recipe.
FAQs
As long as you don't overcook the tortellini, this pasta is 100% make ahead friendly. Store it in the fridge until needed.
Pasta can absorb the dressing, so before serving, you can add a little more pesto or some olive oil.
This salad is incredibly flexible. You can use shelf-stable, frozen, or fresh tortellini. Just make sure to cook according to the package directions, and be careful not to overcook to keep the best texture.
More Delicious Salads
What are the "must-haves" on your family menus? Let me know your family's favorite recipes in the comments! I love gathering ideas from fellow cooks!
Made this recipe? Let me know!
Recipe
Pesto Tortellini Pasta
Equipment
Ingredients
- 9 oz Cheese Tortellini
- ½ cup Pesto
- ½ cup Cherry Tomatoes Sliced in half
- 6 oz Mozzarella Balls Drained
- ¼ cup red onion Diced
- ¼ cup Orange Bell Pepper Diced
Instructions
- Boil Pasta - Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions. Do not overcook!
- Drain and rinse pasta under cold water until cool.
- Place tortellini in a large bowl. Add in pesto, tomatoes, cheese, bell pepper, and onion. Toss well to coat.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
- Don't overcook your Pasta- Follow the instructions on the package for cooking. Fresh pasta will only need about 1-2 minutes before being done.
- Make your own pesto - Here is my Fresh Basil Pesto recipe that I love to make. You can freeze pesto to pull out as needed.
- Use fresh ingredients - Using fresh mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes will make all the difference.
- Make-ahead tip- Save out a little pesto to add in just before serving, because the pasta will absorb the pesto over time.
Nutrition
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