Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further than the humble tortellini salad! These tasty salads are perfect for hot summer days or as a light and refreshing side dish any time of year. With their soft, chewy pasta and flavorful fillings, tortellinis are a great base for a wide variety of ingredients and flavor combinations.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering tortellini salad recipes that will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. From classic combinations like spinach and sun-dried tomatoes to more adventurous pairings like buffalo chicken and blue cheese, there’s something on this list for everyone. So why wait? Let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of tortellini salads!
Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a burst of Mediterranean flair. A perfect side dish or light lunch, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 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 spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini and toss gently to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Tortellini Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this Greek-inspired dish combines tender tortellini with crumbly feta cheese, briny olives, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. tortellini (cheese-filled or herb-infused)
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp. extra-virgin 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 olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and vinegar; season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl with the olive mixture; toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes: A refreshing summer salad that combines the flavors of Italy with a pop of sweetness from cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, pesto sauce, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
This salad is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. The creamy pesto sauce pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes, while the tortellini adds a satisfying chewiness to the dish. Enjoy!
Avocado and Bacon Tortellini Salad
A creamy and savory twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the richness of avocado with the smokiness of bacon and the simplicity of fresh tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, crumbled bacon, red onion, and chopped parsley.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Tortellini Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing summer salad combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of tortellini, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes and sliced mozzarella.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on tortellini cooking time)
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tortellini Salad
Roasted Red Pepper and Artichoke Tortellini Salad: A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini (8 oz)
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and sliced
– 1 can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred. Let them cool, then peel off the skin and slice into strips.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, roasted red pepper strips, artichoke hearts, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Garlic Tortellini Salad with Arugula
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon and garlic with the earthy flavor of arugula. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tortellini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice and garlic.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl and stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to coat with the lemon-garlic dressing.
5. Top with arugula leaves and cherry tomatoes.
6. Toss gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Southwest Tortellini Salad with Black Beans and Corn
This vibrant salad combines the creaminess of tortellini with the bold flavors of Southwestern cuisine, featuring black beans, corn, and a hint of lime. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a colorful addition to your next potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp. cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Sesame Tortellini Salad
Asian-Inspired Sesame Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of tortellini with the nutty flavor of sesame and the crunch of Asian-inspired vegetables, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame seeds, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add cooked tortellini, scallions, red bell pepper, and carrots to the bowl. Toss until all ingredients are well coated with the sesame dressing.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Tortellini Salad
A creamy and crunchy salad that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheddar, and tortellini for a satisfying side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cheddar cheese and vinegar until smooth.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked tortellini, broccoli, and cheese mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Kalamata Olives
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean in this refreshing salad, featuring tender tortellini, juicy olives, and a hint of zesty lemon. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 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 olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl with the olive mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ranch-Style Tortellini Salad with Bacon and Peas
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the richness of ranch dressing with the savory goodness of bacon and sweet peas.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon 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 cooked tortellini, crumbled bacon, and thawed peas.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and mayonnaise until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Tortellini Salad with Mozzarella
This classic Italian-inspired salad combines tender tortellini pasta with sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella cheese. A perfect side dish or light lunch option for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked tortellini pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes and chopped basil leaves.
3. Add cooked tortellini pasta to the bowl and toss gently.
4. Arrange mozzarella cheese slices on top of the pasta mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad for an added flavor boost.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Italian Tortellini Salad with Salami
This salad combines the flavors of Italy with a spicy kick, featuring tortellini, salami, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of pepperoni salami, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dried red peppers, crushed (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine salami, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the salad mixture and toss with the dressing until combined.
5. If desired, add crushed red peppers for an extra spicy kick.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beet and Goat Cheese Tortellini Salad
A vibrant and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the tanginess of goat cheese and crispy tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of fresh beets (about 2 lbs)
– 8 oz. goat cheese, crumbled
– 12 oz. cooked tortellini
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
4. In a large bowl, combine tortellini, crumbled goat cheese, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
5. Add roasted beet slices to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cucumber Dill Tortellini Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the simplicity of store-bought tortellini with the brightness of fresh dill and cucumber, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of cheese-filled tortellini (8 oz)
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and chopped dill.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Salad
Elevate your lunch game with this creamy Buffalo chicken tortellini salad that combines the flavors of buffalo wings, tangy ranch dressing, and tender pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 12-15 cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, tortellini, Buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix well.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pear and Walnut Tortellini Salad with Blue Cheese
Elevate your salad game with this sweet and savory combination of pear, walnut, and blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 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, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Add diced pears and chopped walnuts to the bowl; toss gently to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss again to coat with the pear-walnut mixture.
5. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Lime and Cilantro Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of zesty lime juice, fresh cilantro, and creamy tortellini for a perfect summer side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil. Add chopped cilantro and stir to combine.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to coat with the cilantro-lime mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Herb Tortellini Salad with Parmesan
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this Garlic Herb Tortellini Salad with Parmesan is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of garlic-infused tortellini, fresh herbs, and tangy Parmesan cheese creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. garlic herb tortellini
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped parsley and toss to combine.
4. Add cooked tortellini and Parmesan cheese; toss until well coated.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (optional: add white wine vinegar for an extra burst of flavor).
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Elevate your salad game with these 20 flavorful tortellini salad recipes! From classic combinations like Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato to international twists like Asian-Inspired Sesame, there’s something for everyone. Add some Italian flair with Pesto Tortellini Salad or go bold with Spicy Italian Tortellini Salad featuring salami. Or try one of the many vegetarian options, such as Beet and Goat Cheese or Cucumber Dill. Whichever recipe you choose, you’ll be sure to impress with these easy and fresh tortellini salads!