Italian Tortellini Skewers with Pesto Drizzle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tortellini skewers are a fun and delicious way to enjoy Italian flavors in bite-sized form. The combination of al dente tortellini, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and the aromatic pesto drizzle creates a mouthwatering appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they are also customizable to your taste preferences—add olives, roasted red peppers, or other veggies to make them your own. They are the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual picnics to formal gatherings, and they can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Ingredients

• 12 cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

• 12 cherry tomatoes

• 12 mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)

• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pesto drizzle:

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

• 2 tablespoons pine nuts

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 garlic clove

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, usually around 3-4 minutes for fresh tortellini. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the pesto drizzle: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. Gradually add olive oil while blending until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thinner pesto, you can add a little more olive oil.

3. Assemble the skewers: On wooden or metal skewers, thread the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls, alternating the ingredients for a colorful and balanced presentation.

4. Drizzle with pesto: Once the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a platter. Drizzle with the freshly made pesto sauce and garnish with basil leaves if desired.

5. Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. These skewers are delicious cold or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings (12 skewers). The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes to cook the tortellini and assemble the skewers.

Variations

• Add veggies: For extra flavor and color, you can add roasted red peppers, zucchini, or olives to the skewers.

• Grilled tortellini: For a smoky twist, you can grill the tortellini and vegetables on the skewers before drizzling with pesto.

• Vegan: To make this dish vegan, swap the mozzarella with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free pesto made with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for a spicy kick or drizzle some chili oil over the skewers for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. These skewers are best served chilled or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If you have leftover pesto, store it in a separate container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To prevent browning, cover the surface of the pesto with a thin layer of olive oil.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for the drizzle?

Yes, store-bought pesto works well as a time-saver if you’re short on time. However, homemade pesto will give the skewers a fresh, vibrant flavor.

Can I make the pesto ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pesto a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to cover the surface with a little olive oil to prevent browning.

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and let it cool before assembling the skewers.

How long can I store leftover tortellini skewers?

Leftover tortellini skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Can I grill these skewers?

Yes, you can grill these skewers for a few minutes on medium heat, just be careful not to overcook the tortellini. Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

What type of tortellini should I use?

Cheese tortellini is most commonly used for this recipe, but you can also use other types like spinach or meat tortellini, depending on your preference.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers up to 4 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Drizzle with pesto just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

What can I serve these skewers with?

These skewers pair well with a simple salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of Italian bread. They can also be served with a refreshing white wine or sparkling water for a light and delicious meal.

How do I prevent the tortellini from sticking to the skewer?

If you’re concerned about the tortellini sticking, you can lightly coat the skewers with olive oil or use parchment paper to separate each piece. This will help the ingredients slide off easily.

Can I use another type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like provolone, bocconcini, or even feta for a different flavor. Just make sure the cheese is easy to skewer and won’t fall apart when grilling or serving.

Conclusion

Italian tortellini skewers with pesto drizzle are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that brings the best of Italian cuisine to your table. With a simple mix of fresh ingredients, including cheesy tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, these skewers are a perfect way to showcase the irresistible flavors of Italy. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, these skewers are sure to delight with their fresh ingredients and bold pesto flavor.