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Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad

Delicious Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad for Busy Weekdays

Enjoy a refreshing Cold Tortellini Pesto Salad, packed with vibrant veggies and basil pesto, ideal for quick meals and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 49 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 18 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini can substitute with gluten-free tortellini if needed
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved can substitute with diced regular tomatoes
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced consider substituting with bell peppers for added sweetness
  • 1 small red onion, diced swap with green onions for a milder taste
  • 8 oz mozzarella pearls, drained use cubed mozzarella or feta for a different taste profile
  • 1 cup arugula spinach can be used as a substitute for a milder flavor
  • 1 cup baby spinach use additional arugula or kale if desired
  • ½ cup sliced black olives, drained green olives can be an alternative for a different flavor
For the Dressing
  • cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought options work well
  • Salt and pepper, to taste enhances overall flavor balance; adjust according to personal preference

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt and carefully introduce the tortellini. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 2-4 minutes, until al dente.
  2. Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse immediately with cold water to halt the cooking process. Shake gently to remove excess water.
  3. Transfer the cooled tortellini into a large mixing bowl. Add in halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and diced red onion.
  4. Fold in drained mozzarella pearls, arugula, and baby spinach. Gently mix to ensure even distribution.
  5. Drizzle in basil pesto and fold the ingredients together, ensuring everything is well-coated.
  6. Taste and add salt and pepper as desired, mix gently to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Toss before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality basil pesto and adjust seasoning after chilling.

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