Broccolini Tortellini Salad

Introduction

Crisp-tender broccolini, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a bright, zesty dressing come together in this vibrant Broccolini Tortellini Salad that tastes like spring in every bite. The contrast of textures—crunchy greens, soft pasta, and a hint of savory richness—makes it irresistible for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. This dish feels fresh yet satisfying, colorful yet comforting. You’ll learn how to build bold flavor, balance textures, and create a pasta salad that truly stands out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Broccolini Tortellini Salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort. You get the heartiness of cheese-filled tortellini paired with the light snap of broccolini, creating a satisfying contrast in every forkful. The dressing coats each piece beautifully, adding brightness without overpowering the delicate pasta.

It works for meal prep, potlucks, or quick lunches. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or chilled, which makes it incredibly versatile. The broccolini stays crisp-tender, never mushy, while the tortellini brings a creamy, cheesy center that balances the fresh vegetables.

If you enjoy dishes like lemon herb tortellini salad or garlic pasta with bacon, this recipe will easily become a favorite. It feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something vibrant and homemade.

Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated
8 oz (225 g) broccolini, trimmed and halved lengthwise
1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
1/3 cup (40 g) shaved Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (35 g) toasted pine nuts
2 tablespoons (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 small garlic clove, finely minced
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons (5 g) chopped fresh basil

Choose high-quality tortellini for the best texture. Fresh broccolini adds a mild sweetness, while Parmesan and pine nuts deepen the savory flavor profile.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

First, cook the tortellini just until al dente. Overcooked pasta will turn soft and fall apart when tossed. As soon as it finishes cooking, drain and rinse briefly under cool water if you plan to serve the salad chilled. This step stops the cooking process instantly.

Second, blanch the broccolini for only 2–3 minutes. You want it bright green and crisp-tender, not limp. Immediately transfer it to an ice bath to preserve its vibrant color and snap.

Third, dress the salad while the ingredients are slightly warm if you plan to serve it at room temperature. Warm pasta absorbs flavor more effectively, giving your Broccolini Tortellini Salad deeper, more balanced seasoning. Toss gently to keep the tortellini intact and evenly coated.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 3–5 minutes. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccolini

In the same pot of boiling water, add the broccolini. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Drain thoroughly and pat dry.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The dressing should taste bright and slightly tangy.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, broccolini, and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat every piece evenly.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle shaved Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and chopped fresh basil over the top. Toss lightly one more time. Serve immediately for a warm salad or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

This Broccolini Tortellini Salad tastes fantastic both fresh and chilled, so choose the serving style that suits your occasion.

Variations

For added protein, mix in grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or even chickpeas. These additions transform the salad into a complete meal while maintaining its fresh character.

If you prefer a Mediterranean twist, add kalamata olives and crumbled feta. The briny notes pair beautifully with the lemon dressing and broccolini.

To make it vegetarian-friendly with extra depth, stir in sun-dried tomatoes and a spoonful of pesto. This variation creates a pesto tortellini salad vibe while keeping the bright green base intact.

For a lighter option, swap half the tortellini with zucchini ribbons. You’ll reduce carbs while preserving the hearty feel of the dish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store leftover Broccolini Tortellini Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, drizzle a little olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving to refresh the flavors.

Serve this salad alongside grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or even as part of a brunch spread. It pairs well with crusty bread and a chilled white wine. For summer gatherings, present it on a large platter and garnish with extra basil and Parmesan shavings for a beautiful, inviting look.

Avoid freezing, as the tortellini texture will change once thawed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, cook it according to package instructions. Do not overcook, or it may become too soft when tossed.

Can I substitute broccoli for broccolini?
Absolutely. Cut broccoli into small florets and blanch for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.

Is this salad served warm or cold?
You can serve Broccolini Tortellini Salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled. Each option offers a slightly different flavor experience.

How do I keep the tortellini from sticking?
Stir gently while cooking and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil after draining.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store in the fridge and refresh with lemon juice before serving.

Conclusion

This Broccolini Tortellini Salad is comfort food at its finest — bright, fresh, and perfectly balanced with tender cheese-filled pasta and crisp green broccolini. It’s the kind of dish that brings color to your table and makes weeknight dinners or casual gatherings feel special without extra effort.