Lemon basil tortellini salad
Lemon Basil Tortellini Salad is a quick and refreshing pasta salad packed with vibrant lemon, fresh basil, and tender cheese tortellini. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy recipe makes a perfect light lunch, picnic side, or healthy dinner. Each bite is full of zesty, aromatic flavor—ideal for family meals or summer gatherings. Discover how simple it is to make this bright and crowd-pleasing lemon basil pasta salad at home!
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl or jar for dressing
- Whisk
- Salad tongs or serving spoon
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
- 10 –12 oz cheese tortellini fresh or frozen
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/3 –1/2 cup fresh lemon basil sliced or torn
- 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or mozzarella pearls optional
For the Lemon Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 –2 tsp honey or agave
- 1 clove garlic finely minced
- 1/2 tsp salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and fresh lemon basil. Add the parmesan cheese and pine nuts or mozzarella pearls if using.
- Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for best flavor. Garnish with extra basil or cheese before serving.
Notes
Substitute regular basil if lemon basil is unavailable; add extra lemon zest for flavor.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free tortellini and cheese.
For gluten-free, select gluten-free tortellini.
Best served chilled or at room temperature.