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–+ servings
Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad

Delicious Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad for Easy Summer Meals

This Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad is a refreshing and easy dish perfect for summer meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 18 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini fresh or frozen tortellini can also do the trick
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved substitute with grape tomatoes for a similar taste
  • 1 cucumber, diced zucchini makes for a fun swap
  • 1 small red onion, diced use yellow or green onions for a milder flavor profile
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls, drained feel free to use cubed mozzarella or feta for a bolder touch
  • 1 cup arugula spinach is a great alternative if preferred
  • 1 cup baby spinach kale can further enhance the veggie variety
  • ½ cup sliced black olives, drained try kalamata olives for a richer flavor
  • 1¼ cup basil pesto for a unique twist, try making your own or use your favorite store version
  • Salt and pepper, to taste use sea salt or fresh cracked pepper for the best outcome
Optional Add-Ins
  • Grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost
  • Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or dill for added flavor twists

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the tortellini by boiling water in a large pot. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the vegetables by dicing cucumber, red onion, and halving cherry tomatoes. In a mixing bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls.
  3. Combine the ingredients by adding cooled tortellini to the bowl, then add arugula, spinach, and black olives.
  4. Add the pesto over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavors.
  6. Serve gently tossed in individual bowls or on a platter. Enjoy your Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors improve with time.

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