Hello friend! Dive into a rainbow of flavors with this tortellini pasta salad! Tender cheese-filled tortellini mingles with crisp cucumbers and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing that sparkles on your tongue. Sweet roasted bell peppers and crunchy red onions add playful bites, while fresh basil leaves dance through every forkful. A drizzle of olive oil and a hint of garlic bring everything together in a lively, mouthwatering melody. This salad whirls together in minutes and shines as a vibrant side or light main—perfect for sunshine-fueled gatherings or simple weeknight feasts.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This tortellini pasta salad
- Trust me, you’re going to love this burst of flavors!
- It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Fresh veggies add a crunch that makes every bite delightful.
- This one’s a game-changer for meal prep or potlucks!
- Cheese-filled tortellini makes it irresistibly satisfying.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | salad |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 5 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (chilling) |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Chilled and fresh! |
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful tortellini pasta salad!
- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini – cooked and cooled
- 1 cup diced cucumber – adds a refreshing crunch
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper – for a pop of color
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives – for a savory touch
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion – adds a zesty flavor
- 1 cup cubed cheddar or mozzarella cheese – creamy goodness
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – for a rich dressing
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar – substitute with apple cider vinegar for tang
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning – for aromatic herbs
- Salt and pepper – to taste
How to Make tortellini pasta salad
This delightful tortellini pasta salad is perfect for a quick meal or a side dish. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes, a cooking time of 5 minutes, and a chilling time of 30 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool them down.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, sliced black olives, diced red onion, and cheese cubes.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for an extra touch!
Pro Tips for Making tortellini pasta salad
- Cook tortellini al dente for the perfect bite.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Mix in seasonal veggies for freshness and color.
- Chill the salad before serving for enhanced flavors.
- Top with fresh herbs for an aromatic finish.
How to Serve this tortellini pasta salad
- Chill it for a refreshing summer side.
- Serve it as a light lunch with a slice of crusty bread.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Pair with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a flavor boost.
- Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
- Enjoy it at picnics or potlucks for a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store your tortellini pasta salad with ease:
Storing Leftovers
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of serving.
- Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.
Freezing
- Place the salad in a freezer-safe container.
- Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove.
- Add a splash of olive oil or broth to maintain moisture.
- Serve warm and enjoy the flavors!
tortellini pasta salad
Equipment
- 1 Large Bowl for mixing ingredients
- 1 Small Bowl for making dressing
- 1 Pot for cooking tortellini
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini cooked and cooled
- 1 cup diced cucumber adds a refreshing crunch
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper for a pop of color
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives for a savory touch
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion adds a zesty flavor
- 1 cup cubed cheddar or mozzarella cheese creamy goodness
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil for a rich dressing
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar substitute with apple cider vinegar for tang
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning for aromatic herbs
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Tortellini – Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool them down.
- Step 2: Combine the Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, sliced black olives, diced red onion, and cheese cubes.
- Step 3: Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 4: Dress the Salad – Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Chill and Serve – Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for an extra touch!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbs | 30g |
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! While tortellini adds a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose to ensure it’s perfectly al dente.
2. How can I make this salad more filling?
To make your tortellini pasta salad more filling, consider adding protein sources like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even diced tofu. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also make the salad a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this tortellini pasta salad in advance! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, add any dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp and fresh.
4. What dressing works best for tortellini pasta salad?
A light vinaigrette works wonderfully with tortellini pasta salad. You can use a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. For a creamier option, try a yogurt-based dressing or a homemade pesto. Both will complement the flavors beautifully!
Final Thoughts
Get ready to savor the delightful flavors of this tortellini pasta salad! It’s a breeze to make and perfect for any occasion. Picture yourself enjoying this colorful dish with friends and family, sharing laughter and good times. So grab your ingredients, whip it up, and relish every bite of this simple yet rewarding recipe!