simple tortellini salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple tortellini salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this simple tortellini salad recipe with you all! As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy meals that my family will love. This recipe is a staple in our household and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I first discovered tortellini salad at a family gathering, and it was an instant hit.

The combination of cheese-filled pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing is a match made in heaven. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it my own, and now it’s a regular feature in our meal rotation. My kids adore this salad because it’s fun to eat – they love the different textures and flavors.

My husband appreciates how quickly it comes together, making it a great option for busy weeknights. As for me, I love that it’s a healthyish meal that still satisfies our cravings. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the cheese-filled pasta.

I like to use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for the best flavor. The cooking technique is also crucial – you want to cook the tortellini until they’re al dente, then chill them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps preserve their texture and prevents them from becoming mushy.

Once you’ve prepared your tortellini, simply combine it with some chopped veggies (like cherry tomatoes and cucumber), a drizzle of Italian dressing, and some grated cheese. Voila! A delicious salad that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Simple Tortellini Salad

4.7 from 1538 votes

This easy tortellini salad combines tender cheese tortellini with crisp vegetables and a zesty Italian dressing. It is perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish, or a potluck, and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

20 oz (570g) refrigerated 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 grated Parmesan cheese

For the Dressing

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually 7 to 9 minutes, until they float to the surface and are tender but still firm to the bite.
3Drain the tortellini in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4Let them drain well and cool for about 5 minutes, shaking the colander occasionally to remove excess water.
5In a small bowl or a jar with a tight lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6Whisk vigorously or shake the jar until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
7In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
8Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently with a large spoon until all ingredients are evenly coated.
9Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10Before serving, stir in the fresh basil and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top, then serve chilled or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl or jar
Whisk or fork

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or salami. You can also use a store-bought Italian dressing to save time, but the homemade version is more flavorful. This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, but add the basil and Parmesan just before serving.

Watch Video Of How Simple Tortellini Salad Works

This simple tortellini salad recipe has become a staple in our household, and I know it will be yours too!

It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish for a holiday gathering.

Plus, with its light and refreshing flavors, this salad is an excellent choice for hot summer days when you need something cool and satisfying.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tortellini Salad

Q: What type of pasta should I use?

This recipe works best with cheese-filled pasta, specifically tortellini. You can use either fresh or frozen tortellini – just make sure to thaw them properly before using.

Q: Can I customize the recipe?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or protein sources to make this salad your own. Some ideas include diced bell peppers, sliced olives, or cooked chicken.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly. Just be sure to check the ingredients of your pasta and dressing for any animal-derived products.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I reheat this salad?

Nope! This salad is best served chilled. If you try to reheat it, the cheese might become grainy or separated.

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