This Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is a fun mix of cheesy tortellini, crisp veggies, and a simple dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or quick weeknight dinners!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how colorful it looks, and trust me, it’s just too good to eat only one helping. You might even find yourself going for seconds—no shame in that! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the star here and brings that creamy flavor. If you can’t find cheese-filled, try meat-filled tortellini or even fresh gnocchi for a change.
Veggies: I used cucumber and bell peppers for crunch and color. You can swap in cherry tomatoes, diced carrots, or even olives for a twist! Choose veggies you love for a personal touch.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, but you can use mozzarella, feta, or even a creamy goat cheese. Each option will give your salad a different flavor profile!
Dressing: Olive oil and lemon juice work great, but you can mix it up with balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy dressing if you prefer something richer.
Why is Rinsing Tortellini Important?
Rinsing the tortellini after cooking is a key step! This cools the noodles down quickly, stopping the cooking process and preventing them from sticking together. Here’s how to do it:
- Once the tortellini is cooked, drain it in a colander.
- Run cold water over the tortellini for 30 seconds to cool them down.
- Gently shake off excess water before adding to your salad.
This simple step helps keep the tortellini well-separated and ready to absorb all the tasty flavors from the dressing!
How to Make Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and should chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, you’ll need about 50 minutes in total. Perfect for making ahead of time for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once boiling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool them down. This keeps them from getting sticky! Set aside.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini, chopped cucumber, red and green bell peppers, red onion, and shredded cheese. Stir everything gently to mix them well.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This dressing will add a nice zing to your salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the tortellini mixture. Toss gently to make sure everything is well-coated and the flavors are mixed.
5. Add the Chives:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the salad and toss it again. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully together.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
After chilling, serve your pasta salad cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra chives for that lovely touch. Enjoy this delightful and colorful dish!
This Easy Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad is not only quick to make but is bursting with fresh flavors and textures. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just cook them according to the package directions, adding a minute or two as needed to ensure they are cooked through. Rinse them well after cooking to cool.
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some of the dressing may settle at the bottom.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your veggies! You can add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, carrots, or even corn for added flavor and texture. Just make sure to keep similar-sized pieces for even mixing.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini made from rice, quinoa, or other gluten-free grains. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure!
