Description
A fresh and flavorful Tortellini Salad with Zesty Italian Vinaigrette featuring cheese tortellini, crisp vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for potlucks, lunches, or light dinners—delicious served cold and even better after chilling.
Ingredients
1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, chopped
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup olives (Kalamata or black), sliced
1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- While the tortellini cooks, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and pepperoncini.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Fold in chopped basil, parsley, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Great for making ahead—flavors improve after chilling.
Use any variety of tortellini, including spinach or mushroom-filled.
Add protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or salami for a heartier meal.
Swap Parmesan for feta for a tangy twist.
Make it vegan by using vegan tortellini and skipping the cheese.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Refresh with extra olive oil and vinegar if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg