Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes

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Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes is a refreshing, flavor-packed, and satisfying salad that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini pasta with a rich pesto sauce and sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes. It can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature, making it perfect for dinners, potlucks, picnics, or as a make-ahead meal.




🧄 Core Ingredients:

  1. Tortellini (usually cheese-filled, but meat-filled can work too)

  2. Basil Pesto Sauce (homemade or store-bought)

  3. Cherry Tomatoes (halved; red and yellow varieties for color)

  4. Olive Oil (extra virgin)

  5. Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish)

  6. Parmesan Cheese (shaved or grated)

  7. Salt & Pepper (to taste)

🍽️ Optional Additions:

  • Mozzarella pearls or bocconcini (adds creaminess)

  • Grilled chicken or shrimp (for added protein)

  • Pine nuts or walnuts (for extra crunch)

  • Spinach or arugula (for extra greens)

  • Sun-dried tomatoes (for deeper umami flavor)

🥄 Preparation Method (Basic Steps):

  1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and let cool slightly.

  2. Toss the tortellini with pesto sauce until well coated.

  3. Add cherry tomatoes, halved, into the mix.

  4. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

  5. Garnish with basil leaves and freshly grated parmesan cheese.

  6. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes if serving cold.

🍃 Flavor Profile:

  • Herbaceous & aromatic (from the basil pesto)

  • Savory & creamy (from the cheese tortellini)

  • Sweet & tangy (from the cherry tomatoes)

  • Nutty (from parmesan and optional nuts)

  • Satisfyingly hearty, yet fresh

🥗 Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve as a main course salad for dinner or lunch.

  • Ideal for picnics, potlucks, and meal prep.

  • Pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or sparkling water with lemon.

🥦 Nutrition (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: ~400–500 kcal (depends on portion size and pesto/oil amount)

  • Protein: 12–18g (higher with added chicken or mozzarella)

  • Fat: 25–35g (mainly from pesto, olive oil, cheese)

  • Carbs: 30–40g (from pasta and tomatoes)

  • Fiber: 2–4g

🔄 Variations:

  • Vegan version: Use vegan tortellini and dairy-free pesto.

  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or a GF tortellini brand.

  • Low-carb/keto-friendly: Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or hearts of palm pasta.

  • Roasted version: Roast cherry tomatoes for a more concentrated, jammy flavor.

🌿 Storage:

  • Keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.

  • Best served fresh or slightly chilled.

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