Easy Delicious Tortellini Pasta Salad – Simple Weeknight Recipe
Easy Delicious Tortellini Pasta Salad – Simple Weeknight Recipe
This easy tortellini pasta salad is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a vibrant, flavorful salad that everyone will love. The combination of cheese-filled tortellini, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or quick lunches.
What makes this recipe truly special is how versatile it is. You can customize it with your favorite seasonal vegetables or add some creamy pesto chicken for extra protein. The best part? It comes together in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the tortellini according to package directions in well-salted water. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh herbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, fresh basil, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Expert Tips
For the best texture, make sure to rinse the cooked tortellini thoroughly with cold water. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
This salad pairs wonderfully with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes like Greek tortellini salad or a simple refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
You can make this salad ahead of time – it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Just wait to add the fresh herbs until right before serving to keep them vibrant.
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes would all be delicious additions.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Just cook according to package directions and make sure to cool it completely before assembling the salad.
How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?
This tortellini salad will keep well for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! The cheese tortellini and vegetables make it a satisfying meat-free option. For more vegetarian inspiration, check out our Southwest black bean salad.
What can I serve with this pasta salad?
This versatile salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a larger spread with other salads and sides. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light main course.
Easy Delicious Tortellini Pasta Salad – Simple Weeknight Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions in well-salted water. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the fresh herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, fresh basil, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
- Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
