Looking for a delicious and easy pasta salad recipe to add to your repertoire? Look no further than this Tortellini Pasta Salad! Packed with vibrant colors and flavors, this dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great Flavors: The combination of cheese tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and fresh mozzarella creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
Quick Prep Time: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare a big batch of this pasta salad and enjoy it throughout the week as a tasty and satisfying lunch option.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Salad:

Refrigerated cheese tortellini

Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, fresh mozzarella balls, salami or pepperoni, Parmesan cheese, baby spinach or arugula, fresh basil

For the Dressing:

Extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, salami, Parmesan, spinach or arugula, and basil.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Helpful Tips:

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the salami or pepperoni.

Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies or protein options.

Make sure to taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions:

This Tortellini Pasta Salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, shrimp skewers, or a side of garlic bread. For a refreshing drink option, try serving it with a crisp white wine or a fruity sangria.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated? Yes, just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the salad.
How long will the dressing last in the fridge? The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, this pasta salad actually tastes better as the flavors have time to meld together. Just wait to add the dressing until right before serving.

Conclusion:

Now that you have the recipe for this delicious Tortellini Pasta Salad, it’s time to gather your ingredients and give it a try! Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving a flavorful meal, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy and don’t forget to share your feedback with us!