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Creamy Cold Pesto Tortellini Salad

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A quick and easy creamy cold pesto tortellini salad with sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for casual meals, potlucks, or light lunches. This flavorful dish combines a silky pesto dressing with tender tortellini and bursts of tangy sun-dried tomatoes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed, drained)
  • Small handful fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 3-5 minutes for fresh or thawed tortellini, until tender but still slightly firm.
  2. Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool them down. Set aside to drain thoroughly.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup pesto, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add a teaspoon of water or olive oil if the mixture is too thick.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, and salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add the cooled tortellini and 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to coat each tortellini without mashing.
  6. Fold in the torn basil leaves and optional toasted pine nuts.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the tortellini to avoid mushy texture. Soften cream cheese before mixing to prevent lumps. Use good-quality pesto for best flavor. Toast pine nuts for added crunch. Salad tastes best after chilling at least 30 minutes or overnight. Can be customized with proteins, veggies, or different herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: pesto tortellini salad, creamy pasta salad, cold pasta salad, sun-dried tomatoes, easy side dish, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://bakebelle.com/creamy-cold-pesto-tortellini-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-side-dish/