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Basil Bliss Tortellini Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a simple salad format. This delightful recipe has quickly gained popularity due to its versatility, making it suitable as both a main course and a side dish. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a picnic, or simply looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this salad promises to impress with its colorful presentation and tantalizing taste.

Fresh Basil Pesto Tortellini Salad

Discover the vibrant Basil Bliss Tortellini Salad, a delicious blend of Italian flavors perfect for summer. This refreshing dish combines al dente cheese tortellini with fresh basil, colorful cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing, making it ideal for barbecues, picnics, or light dinners. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, this salad is both visually stunning and satisfying. Elevate your gatherings with this versatile recipe that everyone will love. Enjoy the essence of summer in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces cheese tortellini

2 cups fresh basil leaves, tightly packed

1/4 cup pine nuts (toasted for extra flavor)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

1/2 cup black olives, sliced (Kalamata preferred for richness)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions
 

Cook the Tortellini: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and immediately rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool them down. Set aside to allow any excess water to drain.

    Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, place the packed basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and finely minced garlic. Pulse together until the ingredients are roughly blended. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste the pesto, then season with a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. If you enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes to your liking and blend until everything is well combined.

      Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced black olives. Drizzle the freshly made basil pesto over this tortellini mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together with a spatula, ensuring every component is beautifully coated in the flavorful pesto.

        Chill and Serve: To enhance the overall flavor, cover the salad with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just before you're ready to serve, give the salad a light toss and taste it, adjusting the seasoning with extra salt and pepper as desired.

          Garnish and Enjoy: When ready to serve, finish the salad with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese and a scattering of toasted pine nuts on top for added crunch and richness. This delightful Basil Bliss Tortellini Salad can be enjoyed as a refreshing main dish or served as a vibrant side dish at any gathering!

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6