Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

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Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is the vibrant, veggie-packed dish you didn’t know you were missing. It brings together cheesy tortellini, crisp garden vegetables, and a tangy dressing that ties it all together beautifully. Perfect for outdoor picnics, weeknight dinners, or a colorful potluck centerpiece, this salad is as delicious as it is simple to make.

With every bite, you get the satisfying chew of tortellini paired with bursts of flavor from juicy cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and a zesty Italian-inspired vinaigrette. It’s hearty enough to stand alone yet plays well as a side with grilled meats or sandwiches. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping lunch for the week, this salad stays fresh and flavor-packed.

Why You’ll Love This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

It’s quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable. You can load it up with your favorite seasonal vegetables or toss in some olives, fresh herbs, or even grilled chicken to make it a complete meal. It also keeps beautifully in the fridge, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or meal prep. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

For best results, use refrigerated or fresh tortellini from the deli section of your grocery store. Cheese-filled is classic and pairs well with the bright vegetables and dressing, but feel free to explore other fillings like spinach and ricotta or even mushroom. Avoid dried tortellini, which can be too firm and less flavorful for a salad like this.

Ingredients for the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

The beauty of this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad is in the fresh, crisp produce and flavorful pasta. Choosing high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. You can go as traditional or as creative as you want with the mix-ins, but the base of this dish shines with vibrant colors and textures.

• Cheese tortellini: The heart of the dish. These little pasta pockets add a satisfying richness and hold their shape beautifully in the salad.
• Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they bring a pop of color and freshness.
• Cucumber: Crisp and cooling, perfect for balancing the flavors.
• Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch with a vibrant hue.
• Red onion: For a little bite and color contrast.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant, herby note that brightens everything.
• Italian dressing: Ties it all together with zesty, tangy flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: For a savory finishing touch.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every bite.

How To Make the Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions until just tender. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking. Let them cool completely before mixing.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

While the tortellini is cooling, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the fresh basil. You want everything bite-sized for easy eating.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, all the vegetables, and basil. Drizzle in the Italian dressing and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Finish and Chill

Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top and give it a final toss. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad

This salad is best served chilled, which makes it a fantastic choice for warm-weather meals, summer parties, or prepping a refreshing lunch. It easily feeds 6 to 8 people as a side or 4 if served as a main dish. The bright flavors are most pronounced after it has had time to rest, so aim to make it at least 30 minutes in advance, or even the night before.

To store, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If it seems a bit dry after sitting in the fridge, just add a splash more dressing and toss to revive the flavors. Avoid freezing this salad as the vegetables and pasta will lose their texture.

What to Serve With Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad?

Grilled Chicken Skewers

The smoky char from grilled chicken skewers pairs perfectly with the fresh crunch of the salad.

Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is always a hit, especially alongside a chilled pasta dish.

Baked Salmon

Mild, flaky salmon offers a healthy protein that balances beautifully with the zesty flavors of the salad.

Veggie Wraps

Pair it with simple veggie wraps for a light and refreshing vegetarian spread.

Roast Turkey Sandwiches

A classic deli-style turkey sandwich makes a satisfying lunch when served with a scoop of this salad.

Caprese Skewers

Keep things colorful and fresh with mini mozzarella-tomato-basil skewers on the side.

Watermelon Slices

The sweetness of watermelon offers a cooling contrast that complements the tangy salad.

Sparkling Lemonade

A fizzy citrus drink will elevate the whole meal and round out your summer table.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad, you’ll probably enjoy these other refreshing favorites:

• Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken for a citrusy, protein-packed variation.
• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad if you’re craving something rich, tangy, and nostalgic.
• Apple Salad for a sweet-savory combo that works great year-round.
• Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes as a simple, juicy side to pair with your mains.
• Easter Fruit Fluff Salad when you want something sweet and cloud-like for dessert.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can revisit it whenever you need a fresh idea.

And if you make this, let me know in the comments! Did you add olives? Maybe some chickpeas or grilled zucchini? I’d love to hear your twist on it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your new go-to flavor inspiration for every season: Luna Meals on Pinterest

Conclusion

Garden Tortellini Pasta Salad brings color, texture, and flavor to your table with minimal effort. It celebrates everything fresh from the garden and pairs it with the comfort of cheesy tortellini. Whether you’re making a light summer lunch, prepping for a picnic, or adding a star to your potluck spread, this salad has you covered. It’s simple, satisfying, and customizable—just the way a go-to salad should be.

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