Tortellini Pasta Salad Recipe: Easy, Quick & Delicious

Ready for a pasta salad that’s both incredibly easy and absolutely irresistible?

This Tortellini Pasta Salad is about to become your new go-to for potlucks, picnics, or a simple weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and is guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini tossed in a bright and zesty dressing with a medley of fresh veggies and herbs. Sounds amazing, right? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
• The vibrant flavors are a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
• It’s incredibly customizable – swap in your favorite veggies or cheese.
• The combination of creamy tortellini and crisp vegetables offers a delightful textural contrast.
• It’s just as delicious as leftovers, making it great for meal prepping.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this Tortellini Pasta Salad apart is its simple yet flavorful dressing. Instead of relying on heavy mayonnaise, this recipe uses a light and tangy vinaigrette that perfectly coats the tortellini and brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. We also lightly toast the pine nuts, which adds a delicious nutty depth that you won’t find in your average pasta salad.

Ingredient List

• 1 (20 ounce) package of cheese-filled tortellini, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup of pine nuts
• 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup of cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Fresh tortellini: This is what provides the creamy and hearty element, making the salad substantial and satisfying.

Pine nuts: Toasting these releases their oils, enhancing their flavor to provide a delicate crunch and nutty flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package directions. If using frozen, no need to thaw, add directly to boiling water. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. While the tortellini cooks, lightly toast the pine nuts in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat until lightly golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them, stir often. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, fresh basil, and fresh parsley.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
6. Sprinkle toasted pine nuts and Parmesan cheese over the salad.
7. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for later.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to take your salad to the next level? Here are a few delicious additions you can try:

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a handful of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, for a burst of intense flavor.
• Mozzarella Balls: Small mozzarella balls add a creamy and chewy texture.
• Artichoke Hearts: Quartered marinated artichoke hearts bring a tangy and tender element.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the tortellini; they should be al dente.
• For the best flavor, allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
• Adjust the seasoning of the dressing to your liking; feel free to add more lemon juice or Dijon mustard.
• Use fresh herbs for the best aroma and flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but fresh is preferable.
• Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! It’s crucial for bringing out all the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Q: Can I use dried tortellini? A: Yes, but fresh tortellini is recommended for best texture. If using dried, cook according to package directions.
• Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Toss just before serving for optimal freshness.
• Q: Can I substitute the vegetables? A: Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorites, like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Q: Can I use a different type of nut? A: Yes, walnuts or slivered almonds can be used in place of pine nuts. Toasting them is still recommended.
• Q: How long does this salad last? A: This pasta salad will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be mindful that the longer it sits the dressing will absorb, you might want to add a little more before serving.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun ways to customize this salad:

• Mediterranean Twist: Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean-inspired salad.
• Italian Fiesta: Add salami or pepperoni and black olives for a more robust Italian flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Version: Add a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Tortellini Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! It’s perfect as a side dish at a barbecue, a light lunch, or a potluck contribution. Serve it with grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a larger spread. It’s also great on its own for a simple and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This Tortellini Pasta Salad is a winner for its ease of preparation, vibrant flavors, and versatility. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone who loves a delicious and hassle-free meal. Try it out and watch it become your new favorite go-to recipe. Be sure to share your photos with us – we’d love to see your creations!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
• Roasted Butternut Squash Hummus
• Prosciutto Arugula Mini Quiches

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