3 Tortellini Pasta Salad

If you’re searching for a quick, crowd-pleasing dish that combines comfort food and vibrant flavors, tortellini pasta salad is your answer! These colorful bowls are packed with cheesy tortellini, crisp veggies, and zesty dressings—perfect for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or even easy lunches.

In this post, I’m sharing three delicious tortellini pasta salad recipes: the Classic Italian, a Mediterranean twist, and a Creamy Pesto version. Each one is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need:

• Large pot (for boiling tortellini)

• Colander or strainer

• Cutting board & knife

• Mixing bowls

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Salad tongs or large spoon for serving

• Jar or whisk (for homemade dressings)

3 Tortellini Pasta Palad:

Craving something cheesy, fresh, and full of flavor? Read below to explore 3 delicious Tortellini Pasta Salad recipes that are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weeknight meal.

Recipe 1: Classic Italian Tortellini Salad

Ingredients:

• 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup sliced black olives

• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion

• 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella or mozzarella pearls

• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami (optional)

• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

2. Chop tomatoes, pepper, onion, and parsley. Cube mozzarella.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, veggies, cheese, and pepperoni.

2. Pour in Italian dressing and toss to coat evenly.

3. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Chill for 30 minutes for best flavor.

Full Recipes: Classic Italian Tortellini Salad

Recipe 2: Mediterranean Tortellini Salad

Ingredients:

• 20 oz cheese tortellini

• 1/2 cup diced cucumber

• 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes

• 1/3 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

• 1/4 cup diced red onion

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley

• Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cook and cool tortellini as above.

2. Chop cucumber, tomato, onion, and herbs.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients.

2. Combine pasta, veggies, olives, and feta in a large bowl.

3. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat.

4. Chill or serve immediately with extra herbs on top.

Full Recipes: Mediterranean Tortellini Salad

Recipe 3: Creamy Pesto Tortellini Salad

Ingredients:

• 20 oz cheese tortellini

• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

• 1/3 cup fresh baby spinach, chopped

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup prepared pesto

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cook tortellini and rinse under cold water.

2. Chop spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix pesto with mayo or yogurt.

2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan.

3. Stir in the creamy pesto sauce and toss well.

4. Season to taste and chill before serving.

Full Recipes: Creamy Pesto Tortellini Salad

Pro Tips:

• Don’t overcook the tortellini! Al dente is best—soft but not mushy.

• Cool completely: Rinsing the tortellini with cold water stops the cooking and keeps the salad fresh.

• Make ahead: These salads taste even better after chilling for an hour or more.

• Mix and match: Use any veggies, cheese, or protein you love—think rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or roasted veggies.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve as a colorful side dish at BBQs, potlucks, and picnics

• Pack in lunchboxes with a protein on the side

• Add grilled chicken or tofu for a full meal

• Pair with a soup or sandwich for a balanced dinner

• Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon zest, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze

Extra Add-Ons:

Want to personalize your salad even more? Try adding:

• Roasted red peppers

• Artichoke hearts

• Grilled zucchini or squash

• Crumbled bacon

• Capers

• Pine nuts or toasted almonds

• Shaved parmesan or goat cheese

• A squeeze of fresh lemon or balsamic vinegar

Nutritional Stats (Per 1-Cup):

Note: Values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

Key Takeaway:

Tortellini pasta salad is a total game-changer—hearty, flexible, and always a hit. Whether you crave zesty Italian flavors, a Mediterranean mix, or creamy pesto goodness, there’s a version for everyone. You can whip these up in under 30 minutes, and they store beautifully for easy lunches or grab-and-go snacks.

Thank you for spending time in the kitchen with me! I hope these tortellini salad recipes bring joy to your table and save you time while still delivering big flavor. If you try one, I’d love to hear how it turned out—feel free to share your version on social media or drop a comment below!

Read Next: 3 Grilled Corn Salad

FAQs:

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just boil according to package instructions and cool before adding to your salad.

How long does tortellini salad last?
It stays fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free pesto, cheese alternatives, and gluten-free tortellini.

What protein can I add?
Try grilled chicken, chickpeas, tuna, tofu, or turkey sausage for a boost of protein.

Can I serve it warm?
You can! While traditionally served cold, the creamy and pesto versions are delicious slightly warm too.