Summer Chicken Tortellini Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette: A Perfect Summer Delight
Hey there, summer food enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share a refreshing and delicious recipe – Summer Chicken Tortellini Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette. This dish is perfect for warm weather, combining tender chicken, flavorful tortellini, and a vibrant pesto vinaigrette. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog! Let’s dive into this delightful summer salad!
- Ingredients
- Pesto Vinaigrette
- Instructions
- Additional Tips and Variations
- Nutrition Information
- Conclusion
- Recommended Product
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cups arugula or mixed greens
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
Pesto Vinaigrette
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini:Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pesto Vinaigrette:In a small bowl, whisk together the pesto sauce, olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine the Salad:In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, red onion, basil, and arugula or mixed greens. Toss gently to mix the ingredients.
- Dress the Salad:Pour the pesto vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
- Serve:Serve immediately and enjoy your Summer Chicken Tortellini Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette!
Additional Tips and Variations
- Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine just before serving to keep it fresh.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Benefits: This salad provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. For another summer favorite, check out my Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Fajita Salad.
Conclusion
My Summer Chicken Tortellini Salad with Pesto Vinaigrette is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather. The combination of tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and vibrant pesto vinaigrette creates a delightful summer salad. I hope you enjoy making and eating this salad as much as I do. If you’re looking for more salad inspiration, don’t miss my Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken Salad.
Recommended Product
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Explore: Check out my other summer favorites like the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Bacon and Avocado and the Hawaiian Chicken Salad. Happy cooking!