Description
A creamy and vibrant pasta salad featuring cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for potlucks and meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup mozzarella pearls or diced fresh mozzarella
- 1/2 cup kalamata or green olives, sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/3 cup fresh basil, torn
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or toasted pine nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes for fresh tortellini.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and keep the pasta tender.
- Combine Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the dressing.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, roasted red peppers, olives, mozzarella, and greens to a large bowl.
- Toss gently with the vegetables so the textures remain distinct.
- Fold in the cooled tortellini and pour the dressing over everything.
- Stir in torn basil and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
This salad is best cold or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: tortellini, pasta salad, vegetarian, summer recipes, potluck