This vibrant Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of fresh vegetables, savory meats, and creamy mozzarella, all tossed together with tender cheese tortellini and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that brings together a variety of textures and flavors in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Tortellini Pasta Salad not only for its delicious taste but also for its versatility. It can be served as a main dish or a side, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients and a tangy dressing ensures that each serving is bursting with flavor. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks!
Introduction
As the seasons change and gatherings become more frequent, it’s essential to have a go-to recipe that is not only easy to prepare but also tantalizing to the taste buds. This Tortellini Pasta Salad fits the bill perfectly. With its colorful array of ingredients, it’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. The creamy cheese tortellini serves as a perfect base, while the fresh vegetables add a crunch, and the dressing ties everything together with a delightful zing. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or just looking for a healthy meal option, this salad will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
- 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the tortellini to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the dressing is well emulsified.
Step 3: Pour half of the dressing over the warm tortellini and toss gently to coat. Allow the tortellini to cool for about 10 minutes, absorbing the flavors of the dressing.
Step 4: Once the tortellini has cooled, add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, fresh mozzarella, salami or pepperoni, grated Parmesan cheese, baby spinach or arugula, and chopped fresh basil to the bowl. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and toss gently until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, toss the salad again and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
This Tortellini Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a stand-alone meal for a light lunch or dinner, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial feast. It makes an excellent side dish for barbecues and picnics, and it can easily be packed for lunch. Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully.
- Ingredient Variations: Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even roasted vegetables.
- Protein Boost: To make it a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the cheese tortellini with a vegan version and replace mozzarella with tofu or avocado for a plant-based option.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
In summary, this Tortellini Pasta Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Its combination of fresh ingredients, savory meats, and a tangy dressing makes it a perfect choice for any gathering or a simple family meal. With its ease of preparation and the ability to serve it chilled or at room temperature, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as frozen tortellini may require a longer cooking time. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a good toss before serving again. - Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the cheese tortellini with a vegan version and replace the mozzarella with tofu or avocado. You can also omit the salami or pepperoni. - What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. - Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! Just prepare it in advance, refrigerate, and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors will only get better as it sits!
