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Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and fresh pasta salad featuring tortellini, homemade pesto, and seasonal veggies, perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Tortellini (fresh, frozen, or dried)
  • Pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Mozzarella Balls
  • Spinach or Arugula
  • Pine Nuts (optional)
  • Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually just a few minutes. You want ‘al dente’ so it holds up in the salad.
  2. Prepare Ice Water: While the tortellini cooks, prepare a large bowl with ice water. This will help stop the cooking process and keep your pasta nice and firm!
  3. Drain and Chill: Once the tortellini is done, drain it in a colander and immediately transfer to the ice water bath. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to cool, then drain again.
  4. Mix the Pesto: While the tortellini cools, you can either use store-bought pesto or whip up a quick homemade version in your blender. Just combine fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, your choice of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and spinach or arugula.
  6. Add the Pesto: Drizzle the pesto over everything and gently toss to combine. Make sure every delicious piece of pasta is coated with that gorgeous green goodness!
  7. Season to Taste: Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or olive oil as desired.
  8. Chill (if you can wait): For optimal flavor, cover your salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

This salad is great for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, pesto, summer salad, healthy meal, vegetarian

Find it online: https://feastora.com/easy-pesto-tortellini-pasta-salad/