Easy Pesto Tortellini Salad

 

Pesto Tortellini Salad is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of pesto with tender tortellini. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at dinner. The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes and fresh arugula make it visually appealing, while the pesto adds a burst of flavor.

The tortellini, usually filled with cheese or meat, is cooked until al dente and then tossed with a generous amount of pesto. The cherry tomatoes add a juicy sweetness, and the arugula brings a peppery crunch. This combination creates a refreshing and satisfying meal.

To make this salad, you'll need cooked tortellini, fresh basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, and arugula. Simply mix everything together in a large bowl and serve chilled or at room temperature. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes!

This dish is not just tasty; it’s also versatile. You can add other ingredients like olives, mozzarella balls, or even grilled chicken to make it heartier. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this Pesto Tortellini Salad is sure to impress.

 

Why It’s So Simple—Yet So Satisfying

What makes this salad so easy is its unfussy nature. You’re working with just a handful of ingredients, most of which can be found pre-prepped at the grocery store. The tortellini cooks in under two minutes, and the rest is a matter of tossing everything together in a bowl. There’s no need for a separate dressing—the pesto does all the heavy lifting, coating each bite in bold, herbaceous flavor. It’s a dish that doesn’t demand precision, which makes it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings. And because it’s equally delicious warm or cold, there’s no pressure to serve it at the “perfect” temperature.

Protein Additions That Elevate Without Complicating

While the salad is satisfying on its own, it also plays beautifully with added proteins. Grilled chicken or shrimp can turn it into a hearty main course, while thinly sliced salami or prosciutto adds a savory, salty edge that complements the pesto. For a vegetarian twist, toss in chickpeas or white beans for a boost of plant-based protein. The beauty of this dish is that it’s endlessly adaptable—whatever you have on hand can likely find a home in this bowl.

Yes, You Can Make It Gluten-Free

If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, don’t worry—this salad can easily be made gluten-free. Many brands now offer gluten-free cheese tortellini made with rice or corn flour, and they hold up beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to check your pesto label, as some store-bought versions may contain gluten-based thickeners or additives. With those simple swaps, you’ll have a dish that’s just as flavorful and satisfying as the original.

A Dream for Meal Prep

This salad isn’t just a crowd-pleaser—it’s a meal prep hero. It holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavors deepen as they sit. Because it’s designed to be served cold or at room temperature, it’s ideal for packed lunches, road trips, or beach days. You can portion it into containers, add your protein of choice, and have a ready-to-go meal that feels anything but boring. It’s the kind of dish that makes you look forward to leftovers.

Easy Pesto Tortellini Salad

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 (20 oz) bag cheese tortellini

  • 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 (12 oz) container marinated mozzarella balls, drained

  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

Instructions:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook for 1½ minutes or until they float. Do not overcook.

  2. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

  3. In a large bowl, combine tortellini, pesto, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and red onion.

  4. Toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 461 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 35 g

  • Protein: 20 g

  • Fat: 27 g

  • Saturated Fat: 7 g

  • Cholesterol: 48 mg

  • Sodium: 860 mg

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sugar: 4 g