Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 creamy tortellini salad recipes featuring fresh herbs! Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a satisfying main course, these innovative salads have got you covered. From classic combinations like spinach and lemon vinaigrette to bold twists like roasted red peppers and balsamic glaze, each recipe showcases the versatility of tortellini and the power of fresh herbs.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, the Americas, and beyond, highlighting the best of the best in creamy tortellini salads. From garden-fresh caprese to zesty Italian-inspired creations, every salad is carefully crafted to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. So go ahead, get creative, and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this beloved pasta dish!
Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the earthy taste of spinach with the creamy richness of tortellini, all tied together with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup cooked cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Savor the flavors of Italy with this colorful and refreshing salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: Balsamic glaze can be found in most supermarkets or made at home by reducing balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened.
Avocado and Tortellini Salad with Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of ripe avocados with the cheesy goodness of tortellini, all tied together with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, cooked tortellini, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and olive oil until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Greek Tortellini Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the comfort of pasta. A perfect side dish or light lunch, this recipe is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture; toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and refreshing summer salad that combines the richness of pesto with the simplicity of tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, pesto, cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Caprese Tortellini Salad with Mozzarella Pearls
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Italy with a creative twist on traditional caprese, featuring tender tortellini and mozzarella pearls. Perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz fresh cheese-filled tortellini
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and cooked tortellini.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with balsamic glaze and dried basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini Salad
Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini Salad Recipe
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of roasted red peppers with cheese-filled tortellini, fresh herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and sliced into strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss red pepper strips with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted red peppers, tortellini, parsley, feta cheese (if using), apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
6. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bacon Ranch Tortellini Salad
A creamy and savory salad that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, ranch dressing, and cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini (12 oz)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup of ranch dressing
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, and cooked tortellini.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and chopped parsley to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes: A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this dish combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with tender tortellini and artichoke hearts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top of the salad and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Tortellini Salad with Garlic Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creaminess of tortellini with the earthy goodness of broccoli, all tied together with a zesty garlic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, broccoli, and garlic dressing. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southwest Tortellini Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of the Southwest with the comfort of cheese-filled tortellini, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch. The addition of black beans, corn, and tangy dressing creates a deliciously balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, black beans, corn kernels, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss again.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Tortellini Salad with Sesame Dressing
Asian-Inspired Tortellini Salad with Sesame Dressing
This recipe combines the creamy richness of tortellini with the bold flavors of Asian cuisine, all tied together with a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a refreshing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and tatsoi)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced scallions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then chill.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, and scallions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame seeds.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the salad and toss with the sesame dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Antipasto Tortellini Salad with Salami and Provolone
This classic Italian-inspired salad combines the flavors of salami, provolone, and creamy tortellini with a mix of fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 oz Italian-style salami, sliced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup provolone cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, salami, and provolone cheese.
3. Add cooked tortellini and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle parsley over the top and drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Italian Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a zesty twist, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for any occasion. With its mix of tender tortellini, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently to coat with dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pear and Gorgonzola Tortellini Salad
This elegant salad combines the sweetness of pears with the creaminess of gorgonzola cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of fresh greens.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese tortellini
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced pear, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, and chopped walnuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl with the pear mixture. Pour dressing over top and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh arugula leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Tortellini Salad
This salad combines the flavors of roasted vegetables with cheese-filled tortellini, all wrapped up in a light and refreshing dressing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, chopped
– 1 small eggplant, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine roasted vegetables, cooked tortellini, garlic, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Toss to combine and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Caesar Tortellini Salad
A twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines cooked chicken, crispy tortellini, and a tangy dressing for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cheese-filled tortellini (frozen or fresh)
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar salad dressing
– 1/2 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, diced chicken, and cooked tortellini.
3. Drizzle Caesar salad dressing over the top and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle croutons and parmesan cheese over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 10-15 minutes total (including cooking time for tortellini)
Avocado Ranch Tortellini Salad
Add a creamy twist to traditional pasta salad with this Avocado Ranch Tortellini Salad recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, ranch dressing, and cooked tortellini. Toss until well combined.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and parsley; toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes cooking time)
Summer Tortellini Salad with Fresh Veggies
Summer Tortellini Salad with Fresh Veggies
As the weather warms up, this refreshing Summer Tortellini Salad with Fresh Veggies is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With its colorful mix of vegetables, herbs, and creamy cheese-filled pasta, it’s an ideal choice for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fresh tortellini
– 2 cups mixed summer vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed summer vegetables, parsley, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Pour over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tortellini Salad with Jalapeños and Cilantro
Elevate your pasta salad game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Tortellini Salad, featuring crunchy tortellini, spicy jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, jalapeños, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice; pour over the tomato mixture.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl; toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get creative with these 20 creamy tortellini salad recipes that incorporate fresh herbs! From classic combinations like Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette to unique twists like Pesto Tortellini Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. Add some zing with Bacon Ranch Tortellini Salad or go Mediterranean with Artichokes and Olives. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your favorite pasta and fresh herbs.