This Easy Tortellini Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of tasty tortellini, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or a quick dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that comes together in no time? I usually make extra so I can enjoy it for days—it’s just that good! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini brings richness to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might try whole wheat or spinach tortellini for added flavor and nutrition.
Vegetables: I love using cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion for color and crunch. You can easily swap in other veggies like cherry tomatoes, carrots, or even zucchini based on what you have on hand!
Pepperoncini: These add a nice tang. However, if you’re not a fan of heat, you can leave them out or replace them with mild banana peppers or even some chopped olives for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor. Feel free to use a different oil like avocado oil or a flavored oil if you want to change it up.
How Do You Make Sure Your Tortellini Stays Perfectly Al Dente?
Cooking tortellini perfectly is essential for a great salad. To ensure yours is just right, follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This helps flavor the tortellini.
- Add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they float to the surface and are firm yet tender.
- Quickly drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them from getting mushy.
With these tips, your tortellini will stay chewy and perfect in your salad!
Easy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 package (9-10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini slices (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delicious tortellini salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes to enjoy a flavorful, fresh salad.
Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top and are al dente. Drain them and quickly rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with the chopped cucumber, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, pepperoncini slices (if using), and fresh chives. This colorful mixture will make your salad super appealing!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, juice of half a lemon, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and fragrant.
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture. Toss everything gently with a spatula or large spoon until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir and taste to see if you need any extra salt or pepper.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the salad cold or at room temperature. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or just a light meal on its own. Enjoy every bite!
This pasta salad is fresh, crunchy, and tangy, making it an easy go-to recipe for any occasion. Happy cooking!
FAQs About Easy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions, making sure to increase the cooking time slightly if needed. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water before adding it to the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Add More Vegetables or Proteins?
Yes, feel free to customize this salad! Adding cherry tomatoes, olives, or even grilled chicken or chickpeas can boost the flavor and nutrition. Just chop everything into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
How Do I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply choose tortellini that does not contain dairy, use a plant-based dressing, and skip the cheese elements. The fresh veggies and flavorful dressing will keep it delicious!
