Hi friends, Betsy here from Potluck Eats.
If you have spent any time on this site, you already know I love recipes that are simple, dependable, and perfect for busy families. This pesto tortellini pasta salad is exactly that kind of recipe. It is fresh, flavorful, and comes together fast, which is something we all need on those long, busy days.
I first made this pasta salad on a warm weekend when we were grilling in the backyard. I needed a quick side dish that did not take a lot of effort, so I grabbed a package of cheese tortellini, a jar of pesto, and a few ingredients from the fridge. After one bite, everyone kept going back for more.
Now it has become one of my go to summer recipes. It is great for potlucks, family dinners, or those evenings when you just want something easy but still delicious.
Why You Will Love This Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Quick and easy
This recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for busy evenings.
Perfect for gatherings
It travels well and always looks beautiful on a potluck table.
Great for meal prep
You can make it ahead and enjoy it for easy lunches during the week.
Family friendly
The flavors are fresh but comforting, which means both kids and adults enjoy it.
Ingredients You Will Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
You will need
- Cheese tortellini
- Basil pesto
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salami
- Parmesan cheese
- Sun dried tomatoes
- Pine nuts
- Shallots
- Arugula
- Salt
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
A Few Ingredient Tips
Tortellini
I usually use refrigerated cheese tortellini because it cooks quickly and has a soft texture that works perfectly for pasta salad.
Pesto
A good store bought pesto works great for busy days, but homemade pesto will add even more fresh flavor.
Arugula
Arugula adds a peppery bite that balances the richness of the pasta and cheese. Spinach works well too if you prefer a milder green.
How To Make Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
This recipe is very simple and perfect for weeknight cooking.
Step 1 Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
Step 2 Build the salad
Transfer the tortellini to a large bowl. Add the sliced salami, Parmesan flakes, chopped sun dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and diced shallots.
Step 3 Make the dressing
In a small bowl mix together the pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
Step 4 Toss everything together
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is coated.
Step 5 Add the greens
Right before serving, fold in the arugula.
Your pesto tortellini pasta salad is now ready to enjoy.
Ways To Customize This Pasta Salad
One thing I love about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt depending on what you have in your kitchen.
Make it vegetarian
Skip the salami and add cherry tomatoes or mozzarella pearls.
Add extra protein
Grilled chicken works wonderfully in this pasta salad.
Add more vegetables
Try adding artichoke hearts, olives, cucumbers, or roasted peppers.
Cooking should feel relaxed and flexible, so feel free to make this recipe your own.
What To Serve With This Pasta Salad
This pesto tortellini pasta salad works well as both a main dish and a side dish.
Some great pairings include
- Grilled chicken
- Burgers
- Steak
- Roasted vegetables
- Sandwiches for an easy lunch spread
It is especially perfect for summer cookouts and backyard gatherings.
How To Store Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
If the pasta salad dries out slightly, simply drizzle a little olive oil or add another spoonful of pesto and toss gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time
Yes. You can make it a day in advance. Just add the arugula right before serving so it stays fresh.
Can I use frozen tortellini
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just cook it according to the package instructions.
Is this pasta salad served warm or cold
It is usually served cold or at room temperature, which makes it perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.
Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This pesto tortellini pasta salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or easy side dish. Cheese tortellini is tossed with basil pesto, salami, Parmesan, sun dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and peppery arugula for a vibrant Italian inspired salad.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- ⅓ cup basil pesto
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup thinly sliced salami
- ½ cup Parmesan flakes
- ⅓ cup chopped sun dried tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 1 tablespoon finely diced shallots
- 2 cups arugula
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions.
- Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
- Transfer the tortellini to a large bowl.
- Add salami, Parmesan, sun dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and shallots.
- In a small bowl stir together pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss until well coated.
- Add arugula right before serving and gently mix.
Notes
For best flavor use high quality basil pesto and freshly shaved Parmesan. Add the arugula just before serving so it stays fresh and vibrant. This pasta salad can be chilled for 30 minutes before serving for even better flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 333
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
If you make this pesto tortellini pasta salad, I would love to hear how it turned out for you.
Leave a comment on the post or share how you made it your own. Hearing from readers is one of my favorite parts of running Potluck Eats, and your ideas always inspire new recipes in my kitchen.
Happy cooking
Betsy
Leave a Reply