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Creamy Pesto Tortellini Salad

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A quick and easy 5-minute summer salad featuring cheese tortellini coated in a creamy pesto sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for light lunches, picnics, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (basil-based, store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese or Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 12 ounces of cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3 to 5 minutes until tender but firm). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the tortellini in a colander and quickly rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup pesto with 1/4 cup cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Stir well until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add 1 tablespoon olive oil or a splash of pasta water to loosen.
  4. Add the cooled tortellini to the bowl with the creamy pesto. Toss gently with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to coat evenly.
  5. Fold in 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of roughly chopped fresh basil leaves.
  6. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the salad. Add 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the tortellini to avoid mushy texture. Rinsing with cold water stops cooking and keeps pasta firm. If pesto is thick, thin with olive oil before mixing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch. For vegan or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto tortellini salad, creamy pesto salad, summer pasta salad, sun-dried tomatoes salad, easy pasta salad, vegetarian pasta salad

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/creamy-pesto-tortellini-salad-recipe-easy-5-minute-summer-meal/