This Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is perfect for a quick meal. It’s loaded with cheesy tortellini, fresh veggies, and a tasty dressing that ties it all together!
It’s a great dish for lunch or a picnic. Trust me, once you start eating, it’s hard to stop. I love making it ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Creamy Cheese Tortellini: Use a good-quality refrigerated cheese tortellini for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using whole-wheat tortellini or even stuffed pasta alternatives like spinach or mushroom tortellini.
Fresh Vegetables: Cucumbers and bell peppers add crunch and color. If you’re short on fresh veggies, cherry tomatoes can be a delightful alternative. Feel free to mix in whatever veggies you have on hand.
Chives: Chives bring a mild onion flavor to the salad. If you can’t find them, green onions or even fresh parsley could work well too.
Olive Oil & Lemon Juice: For a tangier taste, you could swap lemon juice for balsamic vinegar. Use extra virgin olive oil for more flavor, or try avocado oil for a different twist!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Tortellini Without Overcooking It?
Cook tortellini carefully to prevent it from becoming mushy. Here’s how:
- Follow package instructions for boiling time, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- Once it floats to the top, it’s usually done, but taste one to be sure!
- Drain and rinse instantly under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Let it cool completely in a colander before adding to your salad.
These simple tips will ensure your tortellini remains tender and perfect in your pasta salad!
Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup sliced banana peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little time for chilling. You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the tortellini, chopping the veggies, and mixing up the dressing. Just let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to bring all the flavors together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Once they float to the top, they’re done! Drain them in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool them down. Allow them to drain thoroughly.
2. Combine the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini along with the diced cucumber, chopped red and green bell peppers, chopped red onion, chopped chives, and optionally, the sliced banana peppers. This colorful mix adds both crunch and flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, juice of one lemon, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing is bright and flavorful—just what this salad needs!
4. Toss It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the tortellini and veggies, and gently toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are nicely coated with that zesty dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
If you have time, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to enjoy, give it a gentle stir, adjust the seasoning if needed, and serve it chilled or at room temperature.
This Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions until they’re tender. Look for cooking times specific to frozen tortellini, as they may differ slightly from refrigerated versions.
How Can I Make This Pasta Salad Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! If you want to keep it meat-free, you might consider adding more veggies or even some chickpeas for added protein.
Can I Prepare This Salad a Day in Advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop even more. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving to redisperse the dressing.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the veggies might lose a bit of their crunch over time, but it will still be delicious!
