What is in tortellini pasta salad?

Tortellini pasta salad typically features cheese-filled tortellini, crisp vegetables like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, black olives, mozzarella pearls, and fresh herbs like basil. It’s all tied together with a zesty Italian-style dressing made from olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and seasoning. Optional toppings include shredded parmesan for extra richness and depth.

How do you describe tortellini pasta?

Tortellini is a ring-shaped pasta traditionally stuffed with a cheese or meat filling. It has a tender, chewy bite and holds sauces well, making it ideal for both hot dishes and chilled salads. In a pasta salad, tortellini adds a creamy, satisfying texture that elevates it beyond ordinary pasta shapes.

How long can you keep tortellini salad?

Properly stored in an airtight container, tortellini salad can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. To keep it tasting fresh, stir before serving and add a splash of olive oil if needed. For optimal texture and color, avoid freezing — the pasta and vegetables won’t hold up well once thawed.

What is in Italian pasta salad?

Italian pasta salad usually includes pasta (like rotini or tortellini), vegetables (such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers), cured meats like salami, olives, cheeses (mozzarella or provolone), and Italian dressing. It’s known for bold, tangy flavors, hearty textures, and vibrant presentation, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad: Bold, Colorful & Easy Favorite

Description

Italian tortellini pasta salad packed with cheese, veggies & herbs. A zesty, colorful twist on a classic — ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

For the Salad:
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 (6 oz) can sliced black olives, drained
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- ⅓ cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup shredded or grated parmesan cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Make the Dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use. Stir again before adding to the salad.
Cook the Tortellini:
Boil tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool completely.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, cherry tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, olives, mozzarella, basil, and red onion. Pour in the dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Toss again before serving. Add parmesan cheese just before serving, if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Pasta and Grain Salads
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian-American