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Pesto Tortellini Salad

30-Minute Pesto Tortellini Salad for Fresh Flavor & Fun

Enjoy this vibrant Pesto Tortellini Salad packed with asparagus and artichokes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 package Refrigerated Cheese Tortellini Choose any store-bought variety.
  • 8 ounces Fresh Asparagus Substitute with green beans if out of season.
  • 1 cup Pesto Homemade or store-bought, fresh basil is recommended.
  • 14 ounces Canned Artichoke Hearts Drain and rinse before use.
  • 1/2 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes Packed in oil; save 2 tablespoons of oil for dressing.
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata Olives Optional; use black olives if preferred.
  • 2 cups Fresh Arugula or Baby Spinach Add baby spinach for sturdier option.
  • 1/4 cup Pine Nuts Toasted and optional; walnuts or almonds are great alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Shaved; nutritional yeast serves as a dairy-free option.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Drizzle over salad just before serving.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 3–5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set on a paper towel-lined plate.
  2. In the same pot, add the fresh asparagus and cook for about 2 minutes until bright green and crisp. Transfer to an ice water bath to halt cooking. Drain well and set aside.
  3. Return the drained tortellini to a mixing bowl and pour in 2 tablespoons of reserved oil from sun-dried tomatoes. Toss gently to coat.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine seasoned tortellini, blanched asparagus, pesto, drained artichokes, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add Kalamata olives and arugula. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan. Serve immediately warm or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 14gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add greens just before serving to prevent wilting.

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