This tortellini pasta salad is a fun and colorful dish that brings together cheesy tortellini, fresh veggies, and a tasty dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or a quick lunch!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a tasty meal! Plus, it tastes even better the next day, so it’s great for leftovers! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here. Fresh tortellini offers a delightful texture, but frozen works just as well. If you need a gluten-free option, try rice or corn-based tortellini.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, these tomatoes are perfect for salads. If unavailable, you can use grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes. Canned tomatoes are a last resort but can work in a pinch.
Cucumber: A crunchy cucumber adds freshness. If you’re not a cucumber fan, consider using diced celery or bell peppers for that satisfying crunch.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the dressing flavor. You could substitute it with avocado oil or any neutral oil if necessary, but I always recommend sticking with olive oil for its rich taste.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds acidity to the dressing. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be great alternatives—just note that they may change the flavor slightly.
How Do You Ensure Your Tortellini is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini may seem simple, but there are a few tips to ensure it’s just right. Follow these steps for tender, delightful pasta:
- Start with a large pot of salted boiling water. Salting enhances flavor.
- Add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes longer than the package instructions for a firmer bite. Taste a piece to check for doneness.
- When finished, drain the tortellini but rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
How to Make Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 20 minutes of prep time and an extra 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. In just a little over half an hour, you’ll have a refreshing and tasty salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling some water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. After they’re cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse them under cold water to cool them down. This will help keep them from sticking together.
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked and cooled tortellini with the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced green bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and black olives and mozzarella if you’re using them. Gently stir everything together so that it’s well mixed.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure everything is combined nicely to create a tasty dressing.
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors come together beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a good toss again to mix everything up. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you like. Then, enjoy your refreshing tortellini pasta salad!
Can I Use Different Pasta Instead of Tortellini?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute tortellini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose, and follow the package instructions for cooking.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad keeps well! You can make it a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will improve as it sits! However, if you’re using fresh vegetables like cucumbers, consider adding them just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Red Wine Vinegar?
No worries—white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are excellent substitutes! You can even use lemon juice for a zesty flavor. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning since different vinegars can have distinct levels of acidity.
How to Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a light toss and add a little splash of olive oil or lemon juice to revive the flavors!
