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30 Minute Pesto Tortellini Salad

Bright & Fresh 30 Minute Pesto Tortellini Salad Delight

This vibrant 30 Minute Pesto Tortellini Salad is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Refrigerated Cheese Tortellini Use gluten-free tortellini or any pasta shape if desired.
  • 1 bunch Fresh Asparagus Trim and slice into thirds for even cooking.
  • 1 can Artichoke Hearts Quartered and drained works best for optimal taste.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (packed in oil) Slice them and add 2 tbsp of oil from the jar to enhance dressing.
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Green olives can be used for a different taste profile.
  • 2 cups Fresh Arugula or Baby Spinach Be aware that arugula wilts when dressed; spinach is a great substitute.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Pesto (homemade or store-bought) Feel free to use any other green sauce or dressing you enjoy.
  • 2 tbsp Extra-virgin Olive Oil Drizzle this before serving to enhance overall flavor.
For the Toppings
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (toasted) Walnuts or omitting can make it nut-free if necessary.
  • 1/2 cup Shaved Parmesan Cheese Opt for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings to bring out flavors.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Blanch the Asparagus: In the same pot, add the sliced fresh asparagus and blanch for about 2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Transfer to ice water to halt the cooking process.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Once the asparagus is cool, drain it and add it to the bowl with the tortellini. Pour in 2 tbsp of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Toss gently.
  4. Add the Flavorings: Stir in the pesto, quartered artichoke hearts, sliced sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Add arugula or baby spinach, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Final Touches: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and gently toss to mix. Serve your 30 Minute Pesto Tortellini Salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Adjust pesto and oil amounts to match your taste. This salad can be made ahead of time for better flavor.

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