5.0 from 15 votes
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Recipe
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad makes a delicious summer pasta salad with tortellini, pesto, tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze!
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
18 mins
Servings: 6
Calories: 424 kcal
Course:
Side Dish
Cuisine:
Italian
Ingredients
- 16-20 ounce cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 1 pint grape tomatoes halved
- 8 ounce Mozzarella pearls
- salt & pepper to taste
- fresh basil for garnish
- balsamic glaze for drizzle
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions, drain & rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, add cooked tortellini, pesto, tomatoes, & mozzarella and gently mix to combine
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves
- Serve with balsamic glaze
Cup of Yum
Notes
- Recipe Tips
- FAQ's
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions and make sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad. You don't want any excess water in the salad.
- Use good quality pesto for the best flavor. You can use store-bought pesto or make your own (recommended). If making your own, use fresh herbs, high-quality olive oil, and good quality Parmesan cheese for the best results.
- Halve the grape tomatoes before adding them to the salad. This helps release their juices and ensures they're evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Use fresh mozzarella pearls for the best flavor and texture. If you can't find mozzarella pearls, you can use regular mozzarella cheese and cut it into small cubes.
- Drizzle the salad with balsamic glaze just before serving for a tangy, slightly sweet note. If you don't have balsamic glaze, you can make your own by simmering balsamic vinegar until it's thickened and reduced.
- Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less pesto, tomatoes, and cheese depending on your liking. You can also add additional ingredients, such as grilled vegetables or cooked chicken, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?A: Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?A: Yes, you can use frozen tortellini for this recipe. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and drain it well before adding it to the salad.
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?A: Yes, but it will affect the taste and texture of the recipe.
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?A: Yes, you can use a different type of cheese for this recipe, such as goat cheese or grated Parmesan cheese. Just make sure to adjust the amount of cheese accordingly.
Nutrition Information
Calories
424kcal
(21%)
Carbohydrates
38g
(13%)
Protein
20g
(40%)
Fat
22g
(34%)
Saturated Fat
6g
(30%)
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.1g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.02g
Cholesterol
44mg
(15%)
Sodium
552mg
(23%)
Potassium
187mg
(5%)
Fiber
4g
(16%)
Sugar
5g
(10%)
Vitamin A
1074IU
(21%)
Vitamin C
11mg
(12%)
Calcium
283mg
(28%)
Iron
2mg
(11%)
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 424
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 424kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 38g | 13% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1g | 1% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.02g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 44mg | 15% |
| Sodium | 552mg | 23% |
| Potassium | 187mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 1074IU | 21% |
| Vitamin C | 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 283mg | 28% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.