Easy Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad
This Italian-inspired pasta salad is made with tender cheese-filled tortellini, crisp veggies, olives, and tossed in a tangy homemade or store-bought Italian dressing. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or an easy weeknight side.
Time Required:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~25 minutes
Servings: 6 as a side, 4 as a main
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 (20 oz / ~500g) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, chopped or sliced
1/2 cup black or kalamata olives, sliced
1/2 cup mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or parsley)
For the Italian Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, finely minced
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional: 1/2 tsp honey or sugar (to balance acidity)
Or use 1/2 cup of your favorite store-bought Italian dressing.
Instructions
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook tortellini according to package directions (usually 2–4 minutes).
Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
Whisk all dressing ingredients together in a small bowl or jar. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, mozzarella, red onion, and meat (if using).
Pour over the dressing and toss gently to combine.
Stir in fresh herbs.
4. Chill & Serve:
Let salad rest in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes to develop flavor.
Serve cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra herbs or grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes & Tips
Make it vegetarian: Skip the salami/pepperoni.
Make ahead: Tastes even better the next day! Just add a splash of oil or vinegar before serving if it gets dry.
Add crunch: Try chopped bell peppers or blanched green beans.
Tortellini tip: Don’t overcook! It should be just tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes. Boil straight from frozen — just adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I make it without cheese?
A: You can use meat-filled tortellini or substitute cooked pasta with other ingredients like grilled chicken or veggies.
Q: Can I serve it warm?
A: It’s best cold or room temp, but you can enjoy it warm right after assembling (just skip chilling).
Nutritional Information
Calories: 360
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 540mg