How should I cook the tortellini for these skewers?

Cook tortellini according to package instructions until tender, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool before assembling.

Can I substitute the pesto used in the skewers?

Yes, you may use homemade or store-bought basil pesto. For a richer taste, sun-dried tomato pesto works well too.

Pitted green and black olives are recommended for a balanced briny flavor that complements the tortellini and pesto.

Thread cherry tomato, basil leaf, pesto-coated tortellini, green olive, another tortellini, and black olive onto each skewer in any preferred order.

Yes, they can be made up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerated, and brought to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

This dish is vegetarian-friendly but contains wheat, milk, and pine nuts, so check ingredient labels if allergens are a concern.

A vibrant and crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring tender tortellini, aromatic pesto, and briny olives, all threaded onto skewers for easy serving.

This recipe quickly became a favorite at my family get-togethers because of its fresh flavors and colorful presentation.

Step 1:: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Step 2:: In a medium bowl, gently toss the cooled tortellini with 2 tablespoons of pesto until evenly coated.
Step 3:: To assemble each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (fold if large), one pesto-coated tortellini, one green olive, one more tortellini, and one black olive in any order you like.
Step 4:: Arrange skewers on a serving platter. Drizzle the remaining pesto over the skewers just before serving, if desired.

My kids love helping assemble the skewers, making it a fun family appetizer to create together.

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a side of extra pesto for dipping.

Add small mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or use sun-dried tomato pesto for a richer taste.

Store assembled skewers covered in the refrigerator up to 4 hours; bring to room temperature before serving.

This appetizer is sure to impress guests, offering a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

→ How should I cook the tortellini for these skewers?: Cook tortellini according to package instructions until tender, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool before assembling.
→ Can I substitute the pesto used in the skewers?: Yes, you may use homemade or store-bought basil pesto. For a richer taste, sun-dried tomato pesto works well too.
→ What types of olives work best on these skewers?: Pitted green and black olives are recommended for a balanced briny flavor that complements the tortellini and pesto.
→ How do I assemble the skewers for the best flavor combination?: Thread cherry tomato, basil leaf, pesto-coated tortellini, green olive, another tortellini, and black olive onto each skewer in any preferred order.
→ Can these skewers be prepared in advance?: Yes, they can be made up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerated, and brought to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
→ Are there vegetarian considerations for this dish?: This dish is vegetarian-friendly but contains wheat, milk, and pine nuts, so check ingredient labels if allergens are a concern.