Description
This Fresh and Easy Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for warm weather or as a light meal. Combining cheese tortellini with fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers, tossed in tangy Italian dressing and topped with Parmesan cheese, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. It’s simple to prepare, ready in just 35 minutes, and ideal for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (refrigerated for best results)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or substitute with grape tomatoes)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (can be substituted with zucchini or bell peppers)
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced (any color bell pepper works)
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped (green onions can be used for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (homemade versions can be tailored to taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (feta cheese can be swapped for a different flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically about 3-5 minutes until they float to the top and become tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool and stop cooking. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the tortellini cooks, wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. If substituting, prepare zucchini, bell peppers, or green onions accordingly.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Pour in the Italian dressing and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Cheese and Chill: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and toss lightly once more. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to meld with the ingredients.
- Serve: Give the salad a quick toss before serving. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or light main course.
Notes
- Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to swap vegetables like cucumber with zucchini or bell peppers for variety.
- Red onion can be replaced by green onions if a milder taste is desired.
- Homemade Italian dressing can customize the salad to your preference.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with feta for a different tangy flavor.
- Serve chilled for refreshing taste, or at room temperature.
