Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe

I love a good pasta salad, especially when it’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up. This tortellini pasta salad is my go-to for summer barbecues, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight dinner. It’s got cheesy tortellini, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together. I first made this for a family picnic, and it was gone in minutes everyone was asking for the recipe! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something light and satisfying, this dish is a winner. Let’s dive into why this tortellini pasta salad will become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tortellini pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors. The cheesy tortellini adds a hearty touch, while the veggies keep it light and crunchy. Plus, the homemade dressing is so good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6–8
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Course: Side Dish, Main Dish, or Appetizer

This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a refreshing lunch. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side or a standalone meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious tortellini pasta salad. Feel free to swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry!

For the Salad:

• 20 oz refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini (about 4 cups cooked)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, a store-bought Italian dressing works, but homemade is worth the extra 2 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this tortellini pasta salad is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a dish that’s ready in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes for refrigerated or 7–10 minutes for frozen. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the tortellini cooks, chop your veggies. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion and parsley. Slice the black olives if they’re not pre-sliced. Toss them into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or mason jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it a good shake or stir until everything’s combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooled tortellini to the bowl with the veggies. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat. If you’re using feta, sprinkle it in now and give it one more gentle toss. The salad should look colorful and evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. You can serve it right away, but it tastes even better after chilling. Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Helpful Tips for the Best Tortellini Pasta Salad

• Rinse the tortellini: Rinsing under cold water prevents sticking and cools it quickly for the salad.
• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the tortellini to avoid mushy pasta. Al dente is best!
• Make it ahead: This salad tastes better after a few hours in the fridge, so it’s perfect for prepping in advance.
• Taste the dressing: Adjust the vinegar or honey to suit your taste—some like it tangier, others sweeter.
• Use fresh herbs: Parsley or basil adds a fresh pop, but dried herbs work in a pinch.

Variations to Try

This tortellini pasta salad is so versatile, you can make it your own. Here are some fun twists:

• Mediterranean Style: Swap feta for mozzarella pearls, add artichoke hearts, and use a Greek-inspired dressing.
• Protein-Packed: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or salami for a heartier dish.
• Pesto Twist: Replace the dressing with pesto sauce for a rich, herby flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use vegan tortellini and skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

How to Serve Tortellini Pasta Salad

This salad shines as a side dish for grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue. It’s also hearty enough to be a main dish, especially with added protein like chicken or chickpeas. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for picnics, potlucks, or summer gatherings. Pair it with a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing meal.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover tortellini pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors. If the salad seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or extra dressing. Freezing is not recommended, as the tortellini and veggies can become mushy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg

Note: Nutrition varies based on tortellini brand and ingredient swaps. Check labels for exact values.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as refrigerated. Just follow the package cooking instructions and rinse with cold water after.

How long does this pasta salad last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just store it in an airtight container and stir before serving.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free tortellini and double-check that your dressing ingredients are gluten-free.

What’s a good substitute for red wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar works great. Each adds a slightly different flavor, so taste as you go.

Can I make this ahead for a party?
Definitely! It’s even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Just toss before serving.

Conclusion

This tortellini pasta salad is your new go-to for a quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dish. It’s fresh, versatile, and so easy to make—you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Whether you’re tossing it together for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to impress. So grab those ingredients, give this recipe a whirl, and let me know how it turns out! Save it for your next gathering, share it with friends, or leave a comment with your favorite variation. Happy cooking!