This pesto tortellini salad is one that everyone will love. Cheese tortellini, pesto, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, and more come together to create a pasta salad that's full of flavor in every bite.

I love pasta salad, but I've been making the same variations for years. This time around, I decided to go with a warm pasta salad featuring tortellini and pest. It came out perfectly, and whenever I make it, it goes fast!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• It only uses a few simple ingredients that are at any grocery store.
• It's super easy to make, and comes together quickly.
• The flavors are amazing, and everyone always loves it.

Top Tip

Cook your tortellini to al dente for the best texture for this salad. Pasta of any kind should be tender but firm.

Ingredients

It only takes a few simple ingredients to make this recipe, and you'll be able to snag them all in just a few minutes at your grocery store. Be sure to check out the recipe card at the end of the post for exact amounts.

• Frozen cheese tortellini
• Pesto
• Grated parmesan cheese
• Cherry tomato halves
• Mozzarella pearls
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil cut into strips

Instructions

This recipe is incredibly simple. After making the tortellini, it's most just a matter of mixing. That's it! The highlights are listed here, but you'll find the exact instructions in the recipe card at the end of the post.

1: Cook the tortellini.

2: Combine the remaining pasta salad ingredients.

3: Top with fresh basil and serve.

Substitutions and Variations

• Chill the tortellini for cold pasta salad.
• Use your favorite tortellini flavor for this recipe.
• Try grated asiago, romano, or pecorino romano in place of grated parmesan.

Equipment

• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pot
• Mixing bowl

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an air-tight container for 3 to 5 days.

Freezer: Store in an air-tight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Thaw: Place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.

Make Ahead: You can make this pasta salad a day in advance if you want to serve it cold.

What to Seve with Tortellini Pasta Salad

This delicious pasta salad can be served warm as a main dish. Serve it cold as a new twist on a classic side with all of your favorite party and grilling foods like:

• Burgers
• Dogs
• Grilled, barbecued, or smoked chicken, beef, or pork
• Baked beans
• Coleslaw
• Cornbread
• Biscuits

Tips:

• For the best texture, cook the tortellini to al dente.
• Be gentle when mixing the pasta salad so all the ingredients remain whole.
• For warm pasta salad, mix all the ingredients as soon as the pasta is drained.

FAQ

Other Delicious Dishes