This Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of tasty tortellini, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing. It’s perfect for warm days or potlucks!
It’s so quick to whip up that you might just find yourself making it every week. Pair it with some garlicky bread, and you’re all set for a fun meal! 🥗🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Use cheese tortellini for a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using spinach or mushroom tortellini. You can also try using gluten-free tortellini if needed!
Cherry Tomatoes: They’re sweet and juicy! If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes work well too. You could also use sun-dried tomatoes for a packed flavor punch.
Cucumber: English cucumbers are great since they have fewer seeds. If they aren’t available, use any cucumber you like, but peel it if it’s bitter.
Kalamata Olives: For that salty kick, kalamata olives are the best. If you’re avoiding olives, try artichoke hearts for a fun alternative.
Feta Cheese: A classic choice for Greek salads! If you prefer a creamier texture, use goat cheese. Vegan feta works well if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Make Sure My Tortellini Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini can be tricky. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Follow the package directions for cooking time, but taste it a minute before suggested time to check for doneness.
- Once done, drain immediately to stop the cooking process and rinse with cold water. This helps keep them from sticking!
Perfectly cooked tortellini will be tender yet still have a little bite to them. This adds a nice texture to your salad!
Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced or chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and needs at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Overall, you can have it ready in less than an hour—perfect for a quick, refreshing meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini in a large pot according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to cool them quickly. Set the tortellini aside as you prepare the rest of the salad.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the cooled tortellini, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful medley will be the base of your salad!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard (if using). Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the prepared dressing over the tortellini and vegetable mixture. Using a spoon, gently toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top and gently fold it into the salad, being careful not to break the feta too much.
6. Chill and Serve:
If you choose, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of flavor and color. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad cold or at room temperature. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a flavorful addition to any potluck. Enjoy every bite!
This salad brings together tender tortellini with the vibrant tastes of Greek cuisine, making it a wonderful dish for any occasion!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While tortellini adds a lovely touch, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Your Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare and assemble the salad a day in advance. Just remember to add the dressing closer to serving time to keep the tortellini from becoming too mushy.
What Are Some Good Additions or Variations?
Feel free to customize your salad! Grilled chicken, bell peppers, or even artichoke hearts would work wonderfully. You can also swap in other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor.
