Tortellini Pasta Salad

Tortellini Pasta Salad is a hearty, colorful dish made with cheese-filled tortellini, crisp vegetables, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or an easy make-ahead meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and satisfying with cheesy tortellini
• Packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables
• Comes together quickly—great for busy weeknights
• Make-ahead friendly and perfect for gatherings
• Easily customizable with meats, cheeses, or extra veggies

ingredients

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

• Cheese tortellini (fresh, refrigerated, or dried)
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Bell pepper
• Red onion
• Black or Kalamata olives
• Fresh basil or parsley
• Italian dressing or vinaigrette
• Optional: mozzarella pearls, salami, pepperoni, chickpeas, spinach

directions

1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini with chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, and fresh herbs.
3. Add any optional ingredients like mozzarella or salami.
4. Pour in the dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Toss again before serving and add extra dressing if needed.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Total time: ~50 minutes

Variations

• Use pesto instead of Italian dressing for a creamy twist
• Add grilled chicken or tuna for more protein
• Try a Greek-style version with feta and Greek dressing
• Include beans like chickpeas or kidney beans for added fiber
• Mix in spinach, arugula, or roasted veggies for extra greens

storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Serve cold or at room temperature
• Stir before serving and add more dressing if it has absorbed overnight
• Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes

FAQs

1. Can I use dried tortellini?

Yes, just cook according to package directions and cool completely.

2. Do I have to rinse the tortellini?

Yes, rinsing stops the cooking process and helps cool the pasta for the salad.

3. What kind of dressing works best?

Italian vinaigrette is classic, but Greek, balsamic, or mustard vinaigrette are great too.

4. Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, if you omit meats and use cheese tortellini and vegetarian dressing.

5. Can I serve it warm?

Yes, it’s delicious warm right after mixing or chilled later.

6. What are the best veggies to add?

Tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, onion, spinach, or zucchini.

7. Can I make it a day ahead?

Absolutely—flavors blend better when made ahead.

8. Can I add protein?

Yes, try grilled chicken, tuna, salami, pepperoni, or beans.

9. What cheese works well in this salad?

Mozzarella pearls, cubed provolone, or shredded Parmesan.

10. How long does it keep in the fridge?

Up to 4 days; just refresh with a little extra dressing before serving.

Conclusion

Tortellini Pasta Salad is a simple, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. With bold flavors, crisp vegetables, and cheesy pasta, it’s a hit at any event or a reliable go-to for make-ahead meals. Customize it to your taste and enjoy a delicious bite every time.

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