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Summer Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 4 reviews

A vibrant and refreshing Summer Tortellini Pasta Salad featuring cheese tortellini, shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and basil pesto, all tossed together with olive oil and garnished with fresh basil. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or a make-ahead side dish for gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 (10 ounce) packages cheese tortellini, prepared according to package instructions
  • 2 cups shredded chicken
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
  • 1 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Fresh basil, thinly sliced for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Tortellini: Prepare the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, draining and cooling as directed to avoid overcooking and maintain texture.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked tortellini with shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, chopped roasted red bell peppers, basil pesto, and extra-virgin olive oil until well combined.
  3. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad. It can be prepared up to one day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully.
  4. Serve: Before serving, garnish the salad generously with thinly sliced fresh basil to add a refreshing herbal aroma and burst of flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh pesto or your favorite store-bought basil pesto for the best flavor.
  • Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken to save time and add convenience.
  • This salad can be made a day ahead, allowing flavors to deepen and making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
  • Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a bright, acidic touch.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the shredded chicken or replace it with grilled vegetables or chickpeas.

Find it online: https://marthatasty.com/summer-tortellini-pasta-salad-recipe/