This Creamy Pesto Tortellini is a quick, versatile, and indulgent pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or BBQ side dishes.
Tender cheese-filled tortellini is coated in a luscious, slightly tangy Caesar-pesto sauce and tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, crisp green onions, and crunchy sunflower seeds for texture.
Packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, fiber, and calcium from cheese, this dish is both satisfying and nutrient-rich.
Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal that works warm or chilled.
Creamy Pesto Tortellini
Equipment
- 1 Large pot (for boiling tortellini)
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Colander (for draining tortellini)
- 1 Chef’s knife (for chopping veggies and basil)
- 1 cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ingredients
- 20 ounces cheese tortellini refrigerated
- 1 cup Caesar salad dressing homemade or store-bought
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 6 ounces black olives drained and chopped
- 3 green onions chopped
- ¼ cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅓ cup sunflower seeds
- ⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese divided
- 6 –8 fresh basil leaves chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a generous pinch of salt—about 1 teaspoon per 4 cups of water—to season the pasta as it cooks. Gently add the 20-ounce package of cheese tortellini to the boiling water, stirring carefully to prevent sticking. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, typically 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini, or 6–8 minutes if refrigerated. The tortellini should float to the top and be tender but still firm (al dente).Once cooked, drain the tortellini in a colander and let it sit for 1–2 minutes to remove any excess water. This prevents the sauce from becoming too watery when combined later.
- Mix the Base Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add half of the Caesar salad dressing. This provides a creamy, tangy base for the dish. Transfer the drained tortellini into the bowl and gently toss with the dressing, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. This step allows the tortellini to absorb the flavors and creates a silky texture for the final dish.
- Prepare and Add Vegetables: While the tortellini cooks, halve 1 ½ cups of cherry tomatoes, chop 3 green onions, and drain and chop 6 ounces of black olives. Add these ingredients to the tortellini in the bowl, folding them in gently. The tomatoes provide a burst of freshness, the green onions add mild sharpness, and the olives contribute a briny contrast that complements the creamy sauce.
- Incorporate Pesto and Seasonings: Add ¼ cup of basil pesto to the bowl along with ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir gently until the pesto and seasonings are evenly distributed. The basil pesto infuses aromatic herbaceous notes, while the garlic powder enhances savory depth. Taste the mixture and adjust salt or pepper as desired. If a creamier consistency is preferred, you may add a bit more Caesar dressing gradually.
- Add Crunch and Cheese: Sprinkle ⅓ cup of sunflower seeds and ⅓ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the tortellini mixture. Toss carefully to combine. The sunflower seeds provide a subtle crunch, adding texture contrast to the soft tortellini, while the Parmesan cheese enriches the flavor and adds a cheesy, nutty undertone.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy tortellini to a serving dish or bowl. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Finely chop 6–8 fresh basil leaves and scatter them over the dish for color, aroma, and an added fresh herbal layer.Serve immediately while warm, or refrigerate briefly if serving as a chilled pasta salad. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roast vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Notes
- Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for best texture; frozen tortellini can also be used but may require slightly longer cooking.
- For a richer flavor, mix mozzarella or provolone with Parmesan in the topping.
- Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or cooked sausage to make it a heartier meal.
- Include extra vegetables like sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Serve warm as a main dish or chilled as a pasta salad for a summer-friendly option.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavor
To achieve maximum flavor, lightly toss the cooked tortellini with half the Caesar dressing while still slightly warm—this helps the pasta absorb the sauce.
Using a high-quality basil pesto, either homemade or store-bought, elevates the dish with fresh herbaceous notes.
Toasting sunflower seeds before adding them enhances their nuttiness and crunch.
For an extra burst of flavor, finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This creamy tortellini works beautifully as a main dish or as a side for BBQs and dinner parties.
Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
For protein-rich additions, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed sausage.
A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the creamy pesto sauce and bright tomato flavors, making this dish a crowd-pleasing option for casual weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Storage Tips for Best Results
Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To preserve texture, avoid adding additional dressing until reheating or serving chilled.
If serving warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals to prevent overcooking.
For chilled pasta salads, allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
seeds and fresh basil should be added just before serving to retain their crunch and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well but may require a minute or two longer in boiling water. Ensure the pasta is fully cooked but not mushy before tossing with sauce.
2. Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a vegan Caesar dressing, dairy-free pesto, and plant-based Parmesan substitutes. The creamy texture will remain, and flavor can be enhanced with nutritional yeast.
3. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the tortellini and prepare the sauce mixture a few hours ahead. Toss everything together just before serving, or refrigerate and serve chilled for a refreshing pasta salad.
4. How can I make this dish heartier?
Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage. Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms also bulk up the dish while keeping it nutritious.
5. Can I freeze this pasta?
Freezing is possible, but it may affect the texture of the tortellini and fresh vegetables. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately, then combine with freshly cooked tortellini when ready to serve.
