Mediterranean Pesto Tortellini Salad with Grape Tomatoes
This vibrant Mediterranean Pesto Tortellini Salad combines the rich flavors of three-cheese tortellini with fresh, crisp vegetables and fragrant basil pesto. It's a quick and easy dish perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or a refreshing side. Tossed with sweet grape tomatoes and crunchy yellow bell peppers, this salad is not just delicious but also visually appealing. Serve it cold for a delightful meal that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table, ready in under 15 minutes.
4
Servings
133
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
9 ounces (cooked according to package instructions)
yellow bell pepper
1 medium (cut into matchstick-size pieces)
grape tomatoes
1/2 cup (quartered)
basil pesto
3-4 tablespoons (refrigerated)
extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons (n/a)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the three-cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook until al dente for the best texture.
2
Once the tortellini is cooked, drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
3
Add the matchstick-cut yellow bell pepper and quartered grape tomatoes to the bowl with the tortellini.
4
Drizzle in the refrigerated basil pesto and extra virgin olive oil. Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the tortellini is evenly coated in pesto.
5
For enhanced flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
6
Serve cold and enjoy this delightful Mediterranean salad as a perfect side dish or a light main course.
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
16.25g
Carbs
4.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Pesto Tortellini Salad?
It is a vibrant pasta salad combining three-cheese tortellini with fresh vegetables and basil pesto, served cold.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
The recipe is quick and easy, taking less than 15 minutes to prepare.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients are refrigerated three-cheese tortellini, yellow bell pepper, grape tomatoes, basil pesto, and extra virgin olive oil.
How should the tortellini be cooked?
Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture.
Why should I rinse the tortellini after cooking?
Rinsing under cool water stops the cooking process and prepares the pasta for a cold salad.
What is the best way to cut the yellow bell pepper?
The recipe recommends cutting the yellow bell pepper into matchstick-size pieces.
How should the grape tomatoes be prepared?
The grape tomatoes should be quartered before being added to the salad.
What kind of pesto is used?
The recipe calls for 3-4 tablespoons of refrigerated basil pesto.
Is extra virgin olive oil necessary?
Yes, 1 1/2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil helps coat the ingredients and enhance the Mediterranean flavor.
Should the salad be chilled before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it uses cheese tortellini and vegetables.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 133 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There is 6.25 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 16.25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content?
This salad provides 4.5 grams of protein per serving.
Can this be served as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as either a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Is this salad suitable for picnics?
Yes, it is perfect for picnics, warm weather gatherings, or as a portable side dish.
What is the texture of the finished salad?
The salad features soft tortellini, crunchy bell peppers, and juicy tomatoes in a smooth pesto coating.
Can I use a different color of bell pepper?
Yes, while yellow is used for visual appeal, red or orange bell peppers would also work well.
How many ingredients total are in this recipe?
There are 5 total ingredients required for this recipe.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include pasta salad, quick meal, Mediterranean, easy salad, and summer recipe.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
The nutritional data provided does not list a specific sugar content.
What is the preparation for the basil pesto?
The pesto should be used directly from its refrigerated state.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead and letting it chill in the fridge actually improves the flavor profile.
What is the serving size?
The specific serving size is not listed, but the recipe is portioned for 4 people.
Is this a spicy dish?
No, the flavors are savory and fresh rather than spicy.
Can I add other Mediterranean ingredients?
While not in the original recipe, ingredients like olives or feta cheese would complement the existing flavors.
Is the tortellini fresh or dried?
The recipe specifies using refrigerated three-cheese tortellini.
How do I ensure the pesto is evenly distributed?
Drizzle the pesto and olive oil over the ingredients and gently toss them in a large mixing bowl until coated.