If you have been on the hunt for a vibrant dish that checks all boxes—easy to whip up, fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor—then this Tortellini Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, cheese-filled tortellini mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant basil, all coated in a zesty Italian dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a celebration of summer on your plate that’s equally perfect for casual lunches, potlucks, or as a standout side dish at dinner. Once you try this salad, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation, guaranteed!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in bringing bright colors, exciting textures, and fresh flavors to this delightful salad. From the creamy mozzarella pearls to the herbs and vegetables, every element contributes to making this dish truly pop with freshness.
- Cheese Tortellini (1 pound): Opt for fresh or refrigerated tortellini for that tender, cheesy bite that forms the salad’s hearty base.
- Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): These add bursts of juicy sweetness and a vibrant red color.
- Cucumber (1 cup, diced): Provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Red Bell Pepper (1/2 cup, diced): Adds subtle sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- Red Onion (1/4 cup, thinly sliced): Offers a mild sharpness to brighten the overall flavor profile.
- Black Olives (1/2 cup, sliced): Brings a slight briny depth that complements the fresh vegetables.
- Mozzarella Pearls (1/2 cup): Creamy and soft, they soak up the dressing for extra flavor bursts.
- Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped): The herby, aromatic heart of the salad that elevates every bite.
- Italian Dressing (1/3 cup): The zesty coating that unites all ingredients while keeping the salad light.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste that highlight the freshness.
How to Make Tortellini Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by cooking your cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. This is key to ensuring the pasta has the ideal texture — tender with a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Step 2: Prep Your Fresh Veggies
While the tortellini is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, thinly slice the red onion, and slice your black olives. Prep all your fresh ingredients so they’re ready to be combined in the next step.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, add your cooled tortellini along with all the chopped veggies, black olives, mozzarella pearls, and freshly chopped basil. Seeing the salad come together at this point is so satisfying — the colors alone will make your mouth water.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour the Italian dressing over the salad, gently tossing everything to ensure each piece is lightly coated. This helps the flavors meld beautifully without overwhelming the freshness of the ingredients. Season with salt and black pepper to bring all those tastes into perfect balance.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor harmony, refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the dressing to infiltrate and the basil to infuse its fragrant notes throughout the dish.
How to Serve Tortellini Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle additional torn basil leaves or a few extra mozzarella pearls on top just before serving to add a fresh, inviting finish. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the shine and flavor.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light yet satisfying meal. It also complements more robust mains like BBQ ribs or steak, acting as a refreshing palate cleanser with each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in hollowed-out mini melons or colorful bell peppers for a fun, festive presentation at gatherings. You can also layer the ingredients in clear jars for an attractive, grab-and-go option perfect for picnics or office lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Toss the salad gently before serving again to redistribute the dressing and refresh the textures.
Freezing
Due to the fresh vegetables and delicate cheese, this salad doesn’t freeze well. The texture of the fresh ingredients won’t hold up after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply let it sit out of the fridge for 10-15 minutes before serving if it feels too cold.
FAQs
Can I use dried tortellini for this salad?
Yes, you can use dried tortellini. Just cook it according to package instructions and cool it thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for Italian dressing?
If you don’t have Italian dressing on hand, a simple mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper works wonderfully as a homemade alternative.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely. This recipe uses cheese tortellini and fresh veggies, perfect for a vegetarian diet. Just be sure your tortellini doesn’t contain any non-vegetarian fillings if you’re buying pre-made varieties.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, salami slices, or even chickpeas can boost the protein content and make it a heartier meal without compromising the flavor balance.
How far in advance can I prepare this pasta salad?
You can prepare this salad up to a day ahead. Just give it a gentle toss before serving and add fresh basil or mozzarella pearls if you notice some have absorbed too much dressing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about a dish that comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. This Tortellini Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil Recipe is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s fresh, flavorful, and flexible—offering endless ways to customize it for your personal taste. Next time you need a quick crowd-pleaser or a simple meal that still feels special, give this salad a try. I promise, you’ll be reaching for it again and again!
Print
Tortellini Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This refreshing Tortellini Pasta Salad combines tender cheese tortellini with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and olives, all tossed in zesty Italian dressing. Enhanced with mozzarella pearls and fresh basil, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or summer gathering. It’s easy to prepare, served chilled, and can be made ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper (diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
Dairy
- 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls
Dressings & Seasonings
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions until they are al dente, typically about 3-5 minutes. Drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, mozzarella pearls, and chopped fresh basil. Gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Dressing and Season: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella pearls with cubed mozzarella cheese or feta for variation.
- Add grilled chicken or salami to increase the protein content for a heartier salad.
- This salad can be made up to one day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it excellent for meal prep.
- If you like a more tangy flavor, you can add a splash of extra vinegar or lemon juice.
- Adjust the amount of Italian dressing to your preference if you desire a lighter or more dressed salad.
