Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

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This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that instantly brightens up a table. Filled with vibrant vegetables, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and a zesty dressing, it’s a celebration of color and flavor. Every bite delivers freshness and comfort in perfect harmony, making it ideal for warm days, potlucks, or a quick family dinner.

The beauty of this salad is how effortless it is to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a wholesome, hearty dish ready in minutes. It works beautifully as a main course for lunch, a side at a barbecue, or even a light dinner when you’re craving something refreshing but still satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

You’ll love this recipe for its flexibility and flavor. It’s easy to swap in your favorite vegetables or add a bit of protein, and the tortellini gives it a richness that pairs well with the tangy dressing. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare yet tastes like something you’ve spent hours crafting.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Fresh cheese tortellini works best for this salad, as it has a soft, tender bite that blends perfectly with crisp vegetables. You can also use spinach or herb-infused varieties for an extra layer of flavor. Frozen tortellini is a great backup option, but make sure to cook it just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy once mixed with the dressing.

Ingredients for the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

A great salad starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The tortellini brings a comforting, cheesy base, while the vegetables add crunch, color, and nutrition. The dressing ties it all together with a tangy brightness that makes every bite irresistible.

• Cheese tortellini – the heart of the dish, providing rich, creamy flavor in every bite.
• Cherry tomatoes – juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Cucumber – crisp and refreshing, balancing the richness of the pasta.
• Bell peppers – for crunch and a sweet, slightly earthy flavor.
• Red onion – a sharp, tangy bite that enhances the overall flavor.
• Fresh parsley – adds freshness and a fragrant herbal note.
• Olive oil – the base of the dressing, smooth and flavorful.
• Red wine vinegar – adds tang and brightness.
• Garlic – for a savory, aromatic kick.
• Salt and black pepper – essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.

How To Make the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the parsley.

Step 3: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with all the chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Chill and serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the tortellini. Because it’s stuffed, it can go from tender to mushy quickly, so keep an eye on the pot. Another pitfall is skipping the cooling step—adding hot pasta to fresh vegetables can make them wilt and dull their texture. Also, be mindful not to overdress the salad; too much dressing can make the tortellini soggy.

Serving and Storing This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

This recipe comfortably feeds 6 people as a main dish or 8 as a side. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings and picnics. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If storing for later, you can keep the dressing separate and toss before serving to maintain maximum freshness.

What to Serve With Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Juicy, citrusy chicken complements the freshness of the salad beautifully.

Garlic Bread

A warm, crusty side that’s perfect for soaking up any extra dressing.

Roasted Vegetables

Earthy roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add a warm, savory note to the meal.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato skewers are a light, refreshing pairing.

Chilled White Wine

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio makes an excellent match.

Fruit Salad

A sweet, juicy fruit medley balances the savory pasta salad.

Marinated Olives

Briny olives bring a salty bite that pairs perfectly with the creamy tortellini.

Want More Pasta Salad Ideas?

If you love this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites from Nina Dishes:

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a rich and savory twist.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta Spinach for a seafood-inspired pasta delight.
• Mexican Zucchini and Ground Beef Skillet for a hearty and flavorful skillet dinner.
• Blueberry Peach Feta Salad for a sweet and savory salad combination.
• Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Dinner for a balanced and wholesome seafood option.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies or switch up the dressing? Did you try it warm instead of chilled?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is the perfect example of a dish that’s both satisfying and fresh. With its colorful vegetables, tender tortellini, and zesty dressing, it’s versatile enough to be a main dish or side. Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic, a family dinner, or just because you’re craving something vibrant, this salad is sure to become a go-to favorite.

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