Description
This Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad is a flavorful and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal. Combining cheese tortellini with fresh vegetables, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a zesty Italian dressing, it offers a delicious medley of textures and tastes. Easy to prepare and served chilled, this salad is perfect as a side dish or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/3 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubes
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing & Seasoning
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, mixing gently to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Add Dressing and Season: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss everything together to coat well. Add the chopped fresh basil and season with salt and black pepper to your preference.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
- Serve: Toss the salad again just before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors for the best taste.
Notes
- For added protein, mix in salami slices or grilled chicken.
- Use fresh tortellini for the best texture and taste.
- Homemade Italian dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs enhances the flavor if you prefer not to use bottled dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
