This Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is a fun mix of cheese-filled tortellini, colorful veggies, and a tasty dressing. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for lunch or dinner!
You’ll love how creamy and fresh this salad is! I often make it for picnics, and it always disappears fast. Just toss it together and enjoy – so simple and yummy! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini is key for this dish. You can use fresh or refrigerated tortellini. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free options available in grocery stores.
Vegetables: You can customize the veggies! I love the crunch of cucumbers and the sweetness of bell peppers. If you want something different, try cherry tomatoes, black olives, or even cooked asparagus.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil or a plain vegetable oil instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have lemons, lime juice makes a great substitute. Just keep the flavor profile in mind!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Salad?
One of the most important steps is to let the salad chill. This gives all the flavors a chance to come together. Here are some tips:
- After tossing everything together, cover it tightly and chill for at least 30 minutes. This really helps the dressing soak into the ingredients.
- Don’t forget to taste before serving! You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to brighten it up.
- Feel free to prepare it a few hours in advance. Just toss in the chives right before serving to keep them fresh.
By allowing the flavors to blend and adjusting to your taste, you’ll have a salad that’s not just easy, but truly delicious!
Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-ounce) package cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced (optional for tang)
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In no time, you’ll have a refreshing dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese-filled tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. After rinsing, let it drain completely and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the Fresh Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to toss in the color! Add the chopped cucumber, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, diced red onion, optional banana peppers, and fresh chives into the bowl with the tortellini. Mix gently to combine everything.
3. Make the Zesty Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This dressing will bring all the flavors together, so whisk until it’s well-blended.
4. Combine It All Together:
Pour the delicious dressing over the tortellini and vegetables. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure everything is well-coated in the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before chilling, taste your salad! You can add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to fit your flavor preferences. Adjusting the seasoning is key to making it just right!
6. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Chilling also enhances the freshness of the salad.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is ready to go! Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It makes a fantastic side dish or a light meal all on its own. Enjoy every bite!
This bright and creamy pasta salad is a perfect crowd-pleaser, and you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables. Enjoy the deliciousness! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package directions. After cooking, follow the same steps to cool and combine with the veggies and dressing.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No problem! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice. Just use roughly the same amount, but adjust to taste since bottled varieties may vary in acidity.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before enjoying, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize it with your favorites. Great additions include cherry tomatoes, olives, spinach, or even grilled chicken for extra protein. Just keep in mind to adjust the dressing if you add more ingredients!
