Tortellini Pasta Salad
Tortellini Pasta Salad is the perfect dish that brings together delightful flavors and vibrant colors, making it an irresistible addition to any gathering. This salad combines tender, cheese-filled tortellini with fresh veggies and zesty dressing, creating a medley that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a potluck, or simply want to enjoy a flavorful meal at home, this salad is sure to impress.
What truly makes this dish special is its versatility—it’s easily adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, the combination of hearty ingredients and bright flavors means that every bite is a delicious adventure. When you serve this Tortellini Pasta Salad, you’re not just offering a dish; you’re sharing joy and warmth with friends and family, making it a favorite at any table.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly prepared.
Ingredients
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Here’s a glimpse of the fresh ingredients ready for mixing.
Directions
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Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a large bowl.
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While the tortellini cooks, prepare the dressing. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Shake well until emulsified.
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Pour half of the dressing over the warm tortellini and toss gently to coat. Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
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Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, salami, Parmesan, spinach, and basil to the bowl with the tortellini. Pour the remaining dressing over the top and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
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Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, toss again and taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed.
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Garnish with additional fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
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Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap out the salami or pepperoni for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a vegan meat alternative. For a lighter option, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.
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Optional Variations: Add ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for different flavor profiles. Experiment with other greens such as arugula or mixed salad greens.
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Storage or Reheating Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be served cold or at room temperature.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Servings: 6-8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
