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Tortellini Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Fresh and Flavorful Side Dish Everyone Loves

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Fresh and flavorful Tortellini Pasta Salad made with cheesy tortellini, crisp vegetables, mozzarella cheese, Italian dressing, and herbs. This easy cold pasta salad is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, meal prep, and summer gatherings.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish

Ingredients

Scale
  • 20 oz cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup Italian dressing
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • 1/2 cup salami (optional)
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni (optional)
  • 1 cup spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions and drain.
  2. Rinse tortellini with cold water.
  3. Chop tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, onions, and olives.
  4. Add tortellini, vegetables, mozzarella, spinach, and optional meats to a large bowl.
  5. Pour Italian dressing over the salad.
  6. Toss until evenly coated.
  7. Refrigerate before serving.
  8. Top with parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the tortellini.
  • Cold pasta salad tastes best after chilling.
  • Fresh vegetables create crisp texture.
  • Italian dressing works best for classic flavor.
  • Fresh mozzarella adds creamy texture.
  • Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Add extra dressing before serving leftovers if needed.
  • Pesto can replace Italian dressing.
  • Fresh basil adds bright flavor.
  • Perfect for meal prep and parties.

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