Description

Looking for a quick, colorful, and crowd-pleasing dish? Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is your answer! This easy recipe combines cheese-stuffed tortellini with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and mozzarella, tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette. Whether you’re searching for quick lunch ideas, an easy dinner side, or a fresh addition to your summer potluck, this pasta salad fits the bill. It’s a refreshing, flavorful, and versatile meal prep option packed with protein and garden-fresh crunch—perfect for all your easy recipe and food ideas needs.

Ingredients

1 20 oz package cheese tortellini

1 cup cherry tomatoes

1 cup cucumber

0.5 red onion

0.75 cup black or Kalamata olives

1 cup mozzarella pearls

0.25 cup sun-dried tomatoes

2 tablespoons fresh parsley

1 teaspoon dried oregano

salt and black pepper to taste

0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove

0.5 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey or maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and parsley. Drain mozzarella or dice if using a block.

4. In a large bowl, combine cooled tortellini, vegetables, mozzarella, and olives. Pour dressing over and toss gently.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let the salad chill before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Don’t overcook the tortellini—aim for al dente texture.

Use fresh, high-quality olive oil and vinegar for best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 370
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 470mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: tortellini pasta salad, easy dinner, summer salad, potluck ideas, quick lunch