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Fresh & Zesty Tortellini Pasta Salad
Clara

Fresh & Zesty Tortellini Pasta Salad

A vibrant tortellini pasta salad loaded with Mediterranean flavors like olives, mozzarella, fresh basil, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing side or a hearty summer meal.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Dish, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls
  • 1/2 cup chopped salami or pepperoni (optional)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups baby spinach or arugula
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • to taste salt and black pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large mixing bowl
  • jar with lid or small bowl
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Prepare the vinaigrette: combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a jar or small bowl. Shake or whisk until emulsified.
  3. Pour half of the dressing over the warm tortellini and toss gently. Let cool for 10 minutes. Add tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, salami or pepperoni (if using), Parmesan, spinach, and basil. Pour remaining dressing over and toss gently.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Before serving, toss again and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, toss half the dressing with warm tortellini before chilling to let the pasta absorb the vinaigrette. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Make it vegetarian by skipping salami or pepperoni, or add extra veggies for more color and crunch.