This Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is a fun and colorful dish that’s packed with flavor! It features cheesy tortellini, fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes, and zesty olives.
It’s perfect for sunny picnics or potlucks. I love how it can be made ahead of time. Just toss it together, chill it, and you’ll be ready to impress your friends with a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is perfect for this salad, but you can use spinach or meat-filled tortellini if you prefer. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options.
Vegetables: Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes are essential. If you don’t have cucumber, try bell peppers or zucchini for a nice crunch. For tomatoes, any variety you have on hand works great!
Kalamata Olives: These add a bold flavor. If they’re not your favorite, feel free to swap them for green olives or even skip them entirely.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy taste. For a dairy-free option, you can use vegan feta or omit it completely. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, too.
How Do I Cook Tortellini Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini until just right can make a big difference in texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, aiming for al dente (firm to the bite).
- Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
This method ensures your tortellini stays tender without turning mushy. Happy cooking!
How to Make Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced and quartered
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional chill time of at least 30 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to have a delicious salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and rinse it under cold water. This will cool it down and help stop the cooking process. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the salad.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tortellini with the quartered cucumbers, halved tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and sliced red onion. Stir gently to mix everything together.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. If using a jar, you can also shake it well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the tortellini mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to crush the tortellini!
5. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the salad. Toss lightly again to mix everything together, allowing the feta to spread throughout the salad.
6. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and chill your Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. When ready to serve, enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
Enjoy!
This Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also refreshing and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is a classic choice, you can certainly use spinach or meat-filled tortellini depending on your preference. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type you choose!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Greek Tortellini Pasta Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a little stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just remember to add the feta and fresh parsley just before serving to keep them fresh!
What Alternatives Can I Use for the Dressing?
If you want to switch things up, try adding lemon juice instead of vinegar for a citrusy twist, or mix in a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness. You can also use a store-bought Greek dressing if you’re short on time!
