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

Scale

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

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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.