Elevate your pasta salad game with this vibrant Cheese Tortellini Pesto Pasta Salad, a quick and flavorful dish thatβs perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Featuring tender cheese tortellini tossed in a fragrant basil pesto, this recipe bursts with fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp baby spinach, and tangy red onions. Briny black olives and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese add depth and richness, while a touch of olive oil brings everything together. Ready in just 25 minutes and served chilled or at room temperature, this make-ahead dish is easy to prepare and ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a refreshing summer meal. Each bite combines creamy, zesty, and savory flavors for a deliciously satisfying salad that will keep guests coming back for more.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
While the tortellini is cooling, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the black olives into smaller pieces, if desired.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, sliced red onion, and black olives.
Drizzle the basil pesto and olive oil over the tortellini mixture. Gently toss until the ingredients are evenly coated in the pesto.
Sprinkle the salad with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and ground black pepper. Toss lightly to combine.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves.
Calories |
2069 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 111.0 g | 142% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.1 g | 160% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 200 mg | 67% | |
| Sodium | 3917 mg | 170% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 198.7 g | 72% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.1 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.4 g | ||
| Protein | 76.5 g | 153% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1423 mg | 109% | |
| Iron | 15.2 mg | 84% | |
| Potassium | 1338 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.