Italian Pasta Salad Recipe with Cheese Tortellini

Italian Pasta Salad with Cheese Tortellini is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch. Bursting with colorful vegetables, savory cheese tortellini, and a tangy Italian dressing, this salad is both hearty and satisfying. If you’re looking for a salad that’s packed with flavor and texture, you’ve come to the right place.

The combination of fresh ingredients and cheese-filled tortellini creates a delightful medley that’s sure to please any crowd. I’ve been in the mood for fresh, vibrant flavors, and this pasta salad brings a taste of Italy to any table. Not a fan of tortellini? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious with any pasta you prefer.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Small bowl (for dressing)
• Whisk

Ingredients

• 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese balls, halved
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. Prepare Vegetables: While the tortellini is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, and finely chop the red onion. Slice the black and green olives and pepperoncini (if using).
3. Mix Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, olives, and mozzarella cheese balls. Toss gently to mix.
4. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Dress Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
6. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil over the salad. Toss again to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy this delightful Italian Pasta Salad with Cheese Tortellini, a perfect blend of fresh ingredients and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds to Italy with every bite!