Name: Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for extra richness); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant, refreshing pasta salad that brings together cheese-filled tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic pesto for a flavorful, satisfying side or light main dish. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or weekday lunches, it’s quick to prepare and full of fresh, bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort. The cheese tortellini provides a tender, satisfying bite, while the pesto adds herby richness. Cherry tomatoes give bursts of sweetness and color, and the salad can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature. It’s a versatile recipe that’s both convenient and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil (optional, for thinning pesto)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini and halved cherry tomatoes.
Add pesto and toss gently to coat. If needed, thin the pesto with a little olive oil for easier mixing.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil.
Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving, or enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
Different Pasta: Substitute with bowties, rotini, or penne if tortellini is unavailable.
More Veggies: Include arugula, roasted red peppers, or olives for added flavor and texture.
Vegan Option: Use vegan tortellini and pesto without cheese.

Storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled or bring to room temperature. This dish is not suitable for reheating, as the texture of the tortellini may change.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just cook according to the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook so the pasta stays firm.

Is store-bought pesto okay?

Absolutely. High-quality store-bought pesto works well, but homemade is always a great option.

Do I have to chill the salad before serving?

Not necessarily. It can be served immediately or chilled, depending on your preference.

Can I make this salad the night before?

Yes, and it often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Add tomatoes just before serving for best texture.

What other cheese can I add?

Mozzarella pearls or crumbled feta complement the flavors well.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes add a richer, more concentrated flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Only if using gluten-free tortellini and confirming pesto ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I serve this salad warm?

Yes, it also works well as a warm pasta dish if served immediately after cooking.

How do I keep tortellini from sticking?

Rinse with cold water and toss with a little olive oil before mixing with pesto.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as part of a picnic spread.

Conclusion

Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a fresh, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any season. Whether served at a summer cookout or packed for a weekday lunch, this salad combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. With just a few quality ingredients and quick prep time, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

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Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a vibrant and satisfying pasta salad featuring cheese-filled tortellini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil pesto. Perfect served cold or at room temperature, it’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or an easy weeknight meal.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for extra richness)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and pesto.
Add olive oil if desired, and toss until the tortellini is evenly coated.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss again.
Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving or serve at room temperature.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if using.