Cheese Tortellini Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad featuring cheesy tortellini, fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella pearls, and a luscious pesto dressing, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 19 ounces cheese tortellini Fresh or frozen tortellini, high-quality recommended.
- ¾ cup pesto sauce Homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes Halved for better flavor; organic recommended.
- 1 cup mini mozzarella pearls Opt for quality brands like Galbani or BelGioioso.
- ¼ cup fresh basil Fresh basil enhances flavor significantly.
Instructions
Cooking
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (about 3-5 minutes) until they float and are al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Ensure tortellini are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Mixing Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with the pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella pearls. Toss gently to coat.
- Consider adding the pesto in batches to ensure even coating.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For best results, store tortellini and dressing separately until serving to keep freshness. Leftovers can last up to 3 days. Ideal for meal prep, this salad tastes even better after sitting overnight.