Tortellini Pasta Salad

Name: Tortellini Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced (preferably English cucumber); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (preferably aged); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 21, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Tortellini Pasta Salad showcases a delightful blend of flavors while being super easy to prepare
With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate
It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or enjoying it for lunch
The leftovers (if there are any) make for fantastic meal prep!

I vividly remember one memorable summer picnic where my aunt brought her famous Tortellini Pasta Salad. light and refreshing lunch option Everyone raved about it—and I may or may not have had two helpings.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Cheese Tortellini: Use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for optimal flavor and texture; cooking time varies depending on type.
Cherry Tomatoes: Choose bright red tomatoes for sweetness; halving them enhances their juicy goodness.
Cucumber: Opt for English cucumbers for their crispness and minimal seeds; they add refreshing crunch.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and crunchy, red bell peppers brighten up the dish both visually and flavor-wise.
Fresh Basil: Use fragrant basil leaves to elevate flavors; tear them by hand for best results.

For the Dressing:

Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness; it forms the base of our zesty dressing.
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash adds acidity; look for aged balsamic vinegar for enhanced sweetness.
Dijon Mustard: Just a teaspoon adds depth; it balances out the oil and vinegar beautifully.
Garlic Powder: A pinch brings in earthy notes without overpowering other flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust according to your personal taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Tortellini: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until they float—this typically takes around 3-5 minutes. Drain them well and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini cools, chop your vegetables. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and finely chop red bell pepper. The fresh colors will brighten up your salad like confetti at a birthday party!

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. The dressing should be smooth and creamy—just like that perfect first date!

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini with chopped vegetables and torn basil leaves. Pour in your homemade dressing generously over everything. nutritious bowl meal Gently toss until all ingredients are well coated—think of it as giving each piece of tortellini a warm embrace.

Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully like friends bonding over shared secrets.

This Tortellini Pasta Salad is not just another side dish; it’s bound to become your go-to recipe for gatherings or cozy nights in! Enjoy every bite as if you’re surrounded by loved ones—even if you’re just binging your favorite show solo!

You Must Know

This tortellini pasta salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures
The vibrant colors from fresh veggies make it visually appealing
Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when it sits overnight

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the tortellini according to package instructions while prepping your fresh vegetables. This ensures everything is ready at the same time without overcooking any ingredients. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Sausages with Zucchini and Pasta recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on your preference or what’s in season. Try adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy chilled, or reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a creamier texture, mix in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Fresh herbs can elevate the dish with vibrant flavor

Sharing this recipe reminds me of a sunny picnic day when my friends devoured every last bite and begged for seconds. Their laughter filled the air as we enjoyed this colorful dish together.

FAQ

What can I add to tortellini pasta salad?

You can add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even roasted bell peppers for extra flavor.

How long will tortellini pasta salad last in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh for about three days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just follow cooking instructions on the package for best results.

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