Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the scent of fresh basil mingling with the tangy notes of vinegar, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. This Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is not just any dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of summer gatherings and joyful memories. The blend of fluffy, cheese-filled tortellini and crisp vegetables creates a fun, refreshing option that’s perfect for potlucks and picnics alike. What I love most about this recipe is its quick prep time and the way it effortlessly transforms into a make-ahead marvel, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with family and friends instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Ready to delight your taste buds with a touch of Italian flair? Let’s dive into the delightful world of tortellini salad magic! Why is Tortellini Pasta Salad a Must-Try? Flavorful Ingredients: This pasta salad features a delightful mix of cheesy tortellini and vibrant veggies that make every bite a celebration of fresh taste. Effortless Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this salad quickly, leaving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy. Make-Ahead Delight: Ideal for busy days, prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld—perfect for potlucks and picnics! Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein and fiber, it’s not only delicious but nutritious too—great to keep you satisfied. Versatile Serve: Whether as a side for barbecues or a standalone lunch, this salad shines in any setting—your guests will love it! So, if you’re looking for more delicious options, check out my Italian Pasta Salad or Orzo Pasta Salad for more vibrant dishes! Tortellini Pasta Salad Ingredients • Discover the fresh components that make this dish a crowd-pleaser! For the Pasta 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini – The heart of the salad; you can use whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini for a healthier twist. For the Vegetables 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds sweetness and pops of color; substitute with grape tomatoes if preferred. 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped – Brings a refreshing crunch; zucchini can be used as an alternative. 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced – Provides a zesty bite; green onions work for a milder flavor. 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped – Infuses briny goodness; feel free to use your favorite variety of olives. 2 cups baby spinach or arugula – Offers leafy freshness; mixed greens can substitute for variety. 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil – Adds a fragrant, aromatic note; dried basil can work if fresh isn’t available. For the Creamy Base 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls – Adds rich creaminess; diced regular mozzarella or feta also makes a great alternative. 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni – Introduces savory protein; chickpeas make a good vegetarian swap. 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Complements the salad’s richness; nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option. For the Dressing 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil – This is the dressing’s main base; light oil can be a great substitute. 1/4 cup red wine vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; apple cider vinegar can be used instead. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds a nice tang; yellow mustard can replace it if needed. 1 tsp honey – Sweetens the dressing beautifully; use maple syrup for a vegan version. 1 clove garlic, minced – Infuses depth of flavor; feel free to adjust according to your garlic preference. 1/2 tsp dried oregano – Enhances the herbaceous taste; Italian seasoning can be substituted for more complexity. Salt and pepper to taste – Always adjust seasoning based on your palate! Get ready to create your Tortellini Pasta Salad and savor the fresh flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tortellini Pasta Salad Step 1: Cook Tortellini Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add 20 ounces of refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook until al dente, about 3-5 minutes, following package instructions. The tortellini should float to the surface when done. Once cooked, drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Step 2: Make Vinaigrette In a sealable jar, combine 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 clove of minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until well combined and emulsified, creating a tangy dressing for your tortellini pasta salad. Step 3: Combine Tortellini and Dressing Transfer the cooled tortellini into a large mixing bowl. Pour half of the prepared vinaigrette over the warm tortellini and gently toss to coat each piece. Allow the tortellini to cool for about 10 minutes, which helps the dressing absorb and enhances the flavor, setting the stage for a delicious tortellini pasta salad. Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients Stir in the remaining ingredients: 1 pint of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 chopped cucumber, 1/2 thinly sliced red onion, 1 cup of chopped kalamata olives, 1 cup of fresh mozzarella balls, 1/2 cup of chopped salami or pepperoni, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cups of baby spinach or arugula. Add the fresh basil and the rest of the vinaigrette, tossing until everything is well mixed and coated in deliciousness. Step 5: Refrigerate Salad Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad into an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This step is crucial in making sure your tortellini pasta salad is refreshing and full of vibrant taste when served. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Before serving, give the tortellini pasta salad a gentle toss to redistributing the dressing and ingredients. Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with additional fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve chilled or at room temperature, enjoying the delightful flavors you’ve created! Tortellini Pasta Salad Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful tortellini salad—your taste buds will thank you! Low-Carb: Swap out tortellini for zucchini noodles for a refreshing, lighter version. You’ll love the crunch and taste of fresh veggies. Vegetarian Twist: Replace salami with roasted chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option that still packs a punch of flavor. They add a delightful nuttiness! Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like feta or goat cheese for unique flavor profiles that elevate the classic dish. Each cheese brings a new taste sensation! Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to introduce some heat that complements the other flavors beautifully. Just a pinch can elevate your dish! Herb Explosion: Mix in fresh parsley or dill alongside the basil for an aromatic herb party that enhances the overall taste. The freshness will be absolutely divine! Creamy Dressing: For a richer dressing, stir in a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to add creaminess and a silky texture. It’ll make every bite indulgent! Fruit Infusion: Toss in diced avocados or sweet bell peppers for a fruity crunch that balances the savory elements of the salad. Adding unexpected ingredients makes cooking fun! Noodle Swap: Try using gnocchi or bowtie pasta instead of tortellini for an exciting texture and shape. Each twist offers a new adventure on your plate! If you’re looking for more pasta excitement, don’t miss my Classic Pasta Salad or check out the flavors in my Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad for even more fresh ideas! What to Serve with Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad As you prepare to savor this delightful tortellini dish, consider these scrumptious pairings that elevate your meal experience! Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery texture of garlic bread perfectly complements the salad’s fresh flavors, making every bite irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort food addition that everyone loves! Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken provides protein and heartiness alongside the lightness of the tortellini, creating a fulfilling and satisfying meal for your summer gatherings. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers add vibrant colors and a pop of flavor that resonates with Italian inspiration, enhancing the thematic dining experience. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy Caesar dressing acts as a classic mate to the tortellini, offering a crunchy contrast that balances the dish’s softness beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies—like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots—adds an earthy touch and texture, bringing a warm vibrancy to your table. Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the olive oil and cheese while offering zesty citrus notes that awaken the senses. Fruit Tart: Finish your meal with a light fruit tart; the sweetness of seasonal fruits and creamy filling provides a delightful contrast to the savory salad, leaving a fresh note behind. These pairings not only enhance your meal but also bring layers of flavor and excitement to your dining experience, perfect for impressing family and friends alike! Storage Tips for Tortellini Pasta Salad Fridge: Store your tortellini pasta salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness while keeping the flavors vibrant. Make-Ahead: Prepare this salad up to 2 days in advance for convenient meal prep. Just be sure to add greens right before serving to keep them crisp. Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this tortellini pasta salad as the textures of the vegetables and cheese may change when thawed. Reheating: If you’ve loved leftovers that you’ve kept in the fridge, enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. Adjust seasoning and add a splash of dressing if needed for more flavor. Make Ahead Options These Tortellini Pasta Salad are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the salad up to 2 days in advance, making it an easy meal prep solution for your upcoming potluck or family gathering. To do so, cook the tortellini and allow it to cool completely. Mix the vinaigrette and chop your veggies (but hold off on adding the greens until just before serving to prevent wilting). Store everything in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply combine all ingredients, adjust the seasoning, and enjoy a refreshingly delicious salad that tastes just as vibrant as when it was freshly made! Expert Tips for Tortellini Pasta Salad Chill Time Matters: Allow the salad to chill for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and intensify. Fresh Greens Last: Add baby spinach or arugula just before serving to prevent wilting in your Tortellini Pasta Salad. Customize Your Olives: Experiment with different olive varieties to find the perfect balance of brininess that suits your taste. Avoid Overdressing: Start with half the vinaigrette, adjusting more as needed, to prevent sogginess in your salad. Storage Savvy: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days; refresh with a splash of dressing before serving. Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs How can I select the best tortellini? Absolutely! When choosing refrigerated cheese tortellini, look for ones that are fresh and have a firm texture. Check the expiration date to ensure maximum freshness. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, I often recommend whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini. What’s the best way to store leftovers? To keep your tortellini pasta salad fresh, transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to stir it gently before serving. If you find it slightly dry, adding a splash of the vinaigrette can revive its vibrant flavors! Can tortellini pasta salad be frozen? I wouldn’t recommend freezing this salad. Freezing can alter the texture of the fresh vegetables and cheese, making them mushy once thawed. Instead, it’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days. What if my salad tastes too bland? Very! If you find your tortellini salad lacking flavor, try adding a bit more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. You can also toss in more vinaigrette little by little until it’s just right. And remember, adding fresh herbs like basil at serving time can make a huge difference! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Indeed! If you’re serving this salad to guests, it’s important to consider dietary restrictions. The salad contains gluten (from tortellini) and dairy (from cheese). For a vegetarian or dairy-free alternative, simply swap the cheese for nutritional yeast and use chickpeas in place of salami. Always check with your guests for any allergies. How long should I let the salad sit before serving? For the best flavor, let the tortellini pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing dish at mealtime. Ultimate Tortellini Pasta Salad: Fresh, Vibrant, and Easy! This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors and perfect for gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SaladCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini can use whole wheat or gluten-freeFor the Vegetables1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved substitute with grape tomatoes if preferred1 cucumber, peeled and chopped zucchini can be used as an alternative1/2 red onion, thinly sliced green onions for a milder flavor1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped feel free to use your favorite variety2 cups baby spinach or arugula mixed greens can substitute for variety1/4 cup chopped fresh basil dried basil can work if fresh isn't availableFor the Creamy Base1 cup fresh mozzarella balls diced regular mozzarella or feta also works1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni chickpeas make a good vegetarian swap1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free optionFor the Dressing1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil light oil can be a substitute1/4 cup red wine vinegar apple cider vinegar can be used instead1 tbsp Dijon mustard yellow mustard can replace it if needed1 tsp honey maple syrup for a vegan version1 clove garlic, minced adjust according to garlic preference1/2 tsp dried oregano Italian seasoning can be substitutedSalt and pepper to taste Equipment large potmixing bowlSeal jar Method Cooking InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook until al dente, about 3-5 minutes, then drain and cool under cold water.In a sealable jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Shake vigorously until emulsified.Combine cooled tortellini in a mixing bowl and toss with half the vinaigrette. Let cool for 10 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.Add remaining ingredients: cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, salami, Parmesan, and spinach or arugula. Toss with fresh basil and remaining vinaigrette.Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.Before serving, toss again and check seasoning. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg NotesAllowing the salad to chill enhances flavor. Add greens just before serving to prevent wilting. Customize your olive choices and adjust dressing as needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
