Costco Style Tortellini Pasta Salad – Easy Deli Copycat Recipe
Costco Style Tortellini Pasta Salad – Easy Deli Copycat Recipe
Recreate that irresistible deli-style tortellini pasta salad you love from the grocery store! This easy copycat recipe captures all the creamy, savory goodness of your favorite store-bought version, but made fresh at home with simple ingredients. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a quick lunch option that everyone will love.
What makes this tortellini salad so special is the combination of tender cheese-filled pasta with crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing that clings perfectly to every bite. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that comes together in minutes and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Add the cooled tortellini to the dressing and gently toss to coat. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and fresh parsley. Mix gently to distribute the vegetables evenly.
Step 5: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final gentle toss. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Expert Tips
Chilling is Key: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours before serving. The tortellini will absorb the dressing and the flavors will develop beautifully.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes. This salad is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to your preferences.
Make Ahead Friendly: This tortellini salad actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or parties. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you enjoy pasta salads, you might also love our Ultimate Deviled Egg Pasta Salad or the refreshing Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad for more delicious options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen tortellini? Absolutely! Frozen cheese tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Just cook according to package directions and cool completely before using.
How long does this salad keep? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this tortellini salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve over time.
Can I make this salad vegetarian? This recipe is naturally vegetarian as written. For a heartier version, you could add grilled chicken or turkey, similar to our Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake.
What’s the best way to serve this salad? This tortellini salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, as part of a picnic spread, or as a main course for a light lunch. It’s also fantastic for potlucks and parties where it always disappears quickly!
Costco Style Tortellini Pasta Salad – Easy Deli Copycat Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Add the cooled tortellini to the dressing and gently toss to coat. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and fresh parsley. Mix gently to distribute the vegetables evenly.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final gentle toss. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
