Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

Craving something fresh, satisfying, and a little bit indulgent? This Tortellini Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and hearty flavors. It’s not your average pasta salad, it’s loaded with tender tortellini, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing that ties everything together. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up and can be served chilled—making it the ultimate dish for picnics, BBQs, or any time you want something light but filling. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to impress!

Why You’ll Love Tortellini Pasta Salad

Let’s talk about why this Tortellini Pasta Salad is a total crowd-pleaser:

Deliciously Versatile:

This salad works as a main dish or a side dish. It’s great for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even as a light lunch that’ll keep you full without feeling sluggish.

Flavorful & Creamy:

The tortellini is soft and satisfying, and the dressing is creamy with a little tang from the vinegar—talk about a flavor explosion! It’s rich without being heavy, and every bite is a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Quick & Easy:

No complicated steps here! With only a few ingredients and simple prep, this pasta salad comes together in a snap, even for beginner cooks. You can have it ready in just 20 minutes!

Customizable:

You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Love olives? Add them in! Want to skip the cheese? No problem! You can make this dish your own.

Make-Ahead:

This pasta salad is a great make-ahead dish. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Perfect for prepping in advance!

Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need for this delightful Tortellini Pasta Salad. The best part is, these ingredients are easy to find and come together effortlessly.

Cheese Tortellini:

The star of the show! These pillowy, cheesy bites of pasta are the base of your salad. You can use fresh or frozen tortellini, whichever you prefer.

Cherry Tomatoes:

Sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color to the salad. They’re full of antioxidants and a great way to balance out the richness of the dressing.

Cucumber:

Crisp cucumber slices add a refreshing crunch that complements the softness of the tortellini. Plus, they’re hydrating and low in calories!

Red Onion:

A little red onion goes a long way, adding a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the dressing.

Bell Peppers:

Colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) are sweet and crunchy, and they bring a nice pop of color to your salad, making it even more appetizing.

Black Olives (optional):

Add black olives for a salty punch and a touch of Mediterranean flair. They’re optional, but they give the salad an extra layer of flavor.

Fresh Basil:

A little fresh basil goes a long way in adding fragrance and brightness to the salad. It really elevates the whole dish.

Italian Dressing:

For the dressing, a good Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade) is perfect. It’s tangy, herbaceous, and adds just the right amount of zest. You can even go for a creamy version if you prefer something richer.

Parmesan Cheese:

A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds salty, nutty goodness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

(Note: Full measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get to making this amazing Tortellini Pasta Salad:

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions (usually about 2-3 minutes for fresh, or 5-7 minutes for frozen). Drain the tortellini and let it cool for a few minutes. If you like, you can toss the pasta in a little olive oil to keep it from sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the tortellini is cooking, chop the vegetables. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, chop the bell peppers, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using olives, slice them as well.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, chopped vegetables, and olives (if using). Toss everything together gently.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss the salad until everything is well coated. If you like your salad a little creamier, feel free to add a spoonful of mayonnaise or sour cream to the dressing.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Give it one last toss, and it’s ready to go!

Step 6: Chill & Enjoy

For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This gives all the flavors time to come together and makes it even more refreshing. Serve cold and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 590mg
Total Carbohydrates: 33g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 9g
Vitamin A: 15%
Vitamin C: 45%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for tortellini)
Total Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve Tortellini Pasta Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

Serve with Grilled Chicken or Shrimp:

For a more filling meal, pair the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. The protein will complement the light salad and make for a balanced meal.

Perfect for Potlucks:

This pasta salad is a hit at parties, BBQs, and potlucks. You can easily make a big batch to share with friends and family.

Add Some Bread:

Pair the salad with some crusty bread or garlic bread for a delicious side. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra dressing!

As a Light Lunch:

This salad makes a great light lunch that’s satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a great option for meal prep too!

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead: This pasta salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. It actually tastes better after sitting for a while as the flavors have more time to meld.
• Change Up the Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies—zucchini, roasted red peppers, or even artichoke hearts would be delicious additions!
• Dressing Alternatives: If you prefer a creamier salad, try using a creamy Italian dressing or a simple combo of mayonnaise and lemon juice.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use gluten-free tortellini?

A1: Yes, gluten-free tortellini is a great substitute for those avoiding gluten. The salad will taste just as delicious!

Q2: Can I use a different type of dressing?

A2: Absolutely! You can use a balsamic vinaigrette or even a creamy ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

Q3: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A3: Yes! It’s a perfect make-ahead dish. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Q4: How long can I store leftovers?

A4: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be aware that the dressing may absorb into the pasta, so you might need to add a little extra dressing before serving.

Q5: Can I add protein to this salad?

A5: Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some cubed mozzarella or feta cheese would be excellent additions for extra protein.

Q6: Can I use frozen vegetables?

A6: Fresh vegetables are ideal, but you can use frozen vegetables if that’s what you have. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the salad.

Q7: Can I make this salad dairy-free?

A7: Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan and use a dairy-free dressing. You can also swap the tortellini for a dairy-free option if available.

Q8: Can I add nuts to this salad?

A8: Absolutely! Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds would add a nice crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

Q9: How can I make this salad spicier?

A9: Add a little kick by tossing in some sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this salad?

A10: This salad is best served chilled, so it’s perfect for making ahead and bringing to picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. It’s also fantastic as a light lunch or side dish.

Conclusion

This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the tender tortellini, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing, every bite is a burst of flavor and texture. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a party, or just looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this salad is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy!

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