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Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always a whirlwind of aromas and laughter. My babcia, with her thick Polish accent, would whip up traditional dishes that filled our home with warmth and love. But it was my mother who introduced me to the vibrant world of Italian cuisine. I remember the first time she made an Italian tortellini pasta salad for a family picnic at Lincoln Park. The tangy dressing, the fresh vegetables, and those delightful little pasta parcels were a revelation. Today, I’m sharing my version of this beloved dish, a recipe that’s become a staple at our family gatherings, and one that my kids, Ella and Peter, adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian tortellini pasta salad is the epitome of a perfect dish. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and versatile enough to serve as a main or a side. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory cheese tortellini, and a zesty homemade dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids! Whether you’re looking for a dish to bring to a potluck or a simple dinner for a busy weeknight, this salad has you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red bell pepper, red onion, and basil leaves. Toss gently to mix.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss again until all the ingredients are well coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
To ensure your Italian tortellini pasta salad is a hit, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours. First, don’t overcook the tortellini; you want them to be al dente to hold up well in the salad. Use fresh basil for the best flavor, and feel free to adjust the amount of dressing to your liking. If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.
Amazon Affiliate Cooking Tools
When I make this recipe, a few simple tools always make prep faster and cleaner. My go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife, perfect for chopping all those fresh veggies with ease. And for mixing the salad without scratching my favorite bowls, I rely on the Silicone Utensils Set – 12 pcs. These tools make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this Italian tortellini pasta salad! You can add grilled chicken for extra protein or swap the cheese tortellini for a spinach variety for a different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan and use a vegan-friendly dressing. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortellini available at most grocery stores.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is versatile and can be served as a main dish or a side. Pair it with a crusty loaf of Italian bread and a glass of chilled white wine for a delightful meal. It also complements grilled meats beautifully, making it a perfect addition to any barbecue or picnic spread.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate and mix it in just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely! While homemade dressing adds a personal touch, a good quality store-bought Italian dressing will work just fine in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Italian tortellini pasta salad brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also a beautiful reminder of family gatherings and shared memories. I encourage you to try it out, maybe even tweak it to make it your own, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something special for your loved ones.
👉 I hope you loved making this Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad—it’s like a little taste of Italy right in your kitchen. If you’re in the mood for more delightful dishes, why not try my Tuscan Chicken Pasta, Creamy Mushroom Risotto, or Vegetable Lasagna? Each recipe is crafted with love and sure to bring warmth to your home. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad: 4 Easy Steps in 15 minutes
A delightful and vibrant pasta salad featuring cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, perfect for any gathering.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, black olives, red bell pepper, red onion, and basil leaves.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until all ingredients are well coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.